When Chrysler bought Dodge in 1928, the need for a dedicated parts manufacturer, supplier and distribution system to support the growing enterprise led to the formation of the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation (CMPC) in 1929.

Originally used in the 1920s, Mopar (a simple contraction of the words MOtor and PARts) was trademarked for a line of antifreeze products in 1937. The Mopar brand made its mark in the 1960s – the muscle car era. The Chrysler Corporation built race-ready Dodge and Plymouth “package cars” equipped with special high-performance parts. Mopar also carried a line of “Special Parts” for super stock drag racers and developed its racing parts division called Mopar Performance Parts to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use.

From 1933 to 1937 Chrysler Motor Parts featured a logo with the letters D, C, P and D, for Dodge, Chrysler, Plymouth, and Desoto. The P was clearly larger than the others, representing Plymouth’s size and importance.

The term Mopar is also closely associated with the muscle cars produced by Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth during the 60’s and into the early 70’s. Over the years the word has gained wide usage among car enthusiasts as a reference to anything produced by the Chrysler company. Including the brands Dodge, Chrysler, Plymouth, Imperial or DeSoto and the later adopted brands of AMC and Jeep.

For example, a car club open for any owner of a Chrysler Corporation vehicle might describe itself as a club for “Mopar Enthusiasts.” In our case in 1990, Reed Brothers Dodge celebrated its 75th Anniversary. As part of that celebration, Reed Brothers Dodge and Mopar Muscle Club International hosted “MOPARS PAST & PRESENT” car show at the dealership. Walking through the lot revealed the variety of muscle cars and engine combinations produced by Chrysler. The ultimate Mopar muscle cars are powered by the notorious Hemi engine, and at this event there were many fine examples on display. Cars were parked with hoods up with their engines showcased for all to explore and enjoy.

From the ’60s into the early 70s, Chrysler built their performance image by offering some of the hottest muscle cars ever produced. And today, many of those legendary cars are still around—thanks to the many dedicated Mopar enthusiasts.

Mopar Muscle Club at Reed Brothers Dodge, 1990

1969 Plymouth Road Runner

1964 Plymouth Sport Fury

1969 Dodge Dart GTS Convertible

1970 Dodge Challenger TA

1967 Plymouth GTX

1970 Plymouth Road Runner Convertible

1969 Dodge Charger

1970 Chrysler 300H

1978 Lil’ Red Express Truck

1966 Dodge D100 Sweptline Pickup

These formative years of Chrysler’s designs not only built the brand, but still influence Dodge to this day.

Sources: January 31, 2012 Chrysler press release, Allpar