COLOR CODEE-7 (1969) - Cordovan or Dark Briar PolyChrysler Touch-Up Paint

The Look

In 1969, Chrysler offered this deep, wine-red shade across their entire lineup to provide a sophisticated alternative to the louder muscle car colors of the era. This isn't just a simple red; it's a moody, dark finish that adapts to its surroundings. Inside your garage, your car might look nearly black or a deep mahogany. Once you pull it out into the daylight, the red tones emerge and give the metal a heavy, expensive feel. It is a color that rewards a clean surface, as the dark pigment emphasizes the body lines of everything from a Dart to an Imperial.

Technical Details

This is a metallic finish, which Chrysler traditionally labeled as a "Poly" paint. This means the formula is packed with tiny flakes that create depth by reflecting light from different angles. Metallic paints require more attention than solid colors because those flakes need to lay down evenly to look right. If the paint is applied too thick, the flakes can bunch up, creating a splotchy or striped effect known as mottling. Maintaining a consistent spray distance and flow is the secret to making the repair disappear into the rest of the finish.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Chrysler Cordovan or Dark Briar Poly (check for code E-7 (1969)), you need to shake it for 60 seconds to fully suspend the metallic particles. You can typically find your paint code stamped into the metal fender tag located under the hood, usually on the driver side inner fender or the radiator support. To ensure a uniform look, keep the container moving in steady passes and test the color on the included card before touching the car. Let the paint have enough drying time between layers so the flakes stay exactly where you put them. If you are using a pen or brush for a small chip, use light dabs rather than long strokes to keep the metallic distribution consistent.