Introduced for 1962 this design is essentially an A11 built for the consumer market.  It also represents a higher end version of the Checker Superba. Differences between the A10 and Superba are the chrome strip that runs from front of the fender thru the doors. The Marathon offered higher end interior trim and a Marathon only dash board.

This model was produced until the end of production in 1982. Various minor changes were made but in essence this is the final incarnation of the Checker. Only a well trained eye can see the difference made in 1962 a year after the 1961 introduction.

  • Parking lights moved to the outboard fender
  • The front splash pan was eliminated
  • Rear wheel openings were enlarged to the fender body line
  • Bumpers were raised up and fenders were altered accordingly
  • Additionally the bumpers now as a dip at the center to house a license plate
  • Door seam between front and rear doors eliminated

 

 

In 1964 Checker no longer offered the Continental six engine and the majority of power plants options were GM Chevrolet based offerings.  Later in the decade a diesel Perkins engine option was offered for 1968 and 1969.

1967 saw the increase in both windshield and rear window openings to improved visibility.

1969 saw the introduction of the side marker lights required by federal law to improve side visibility at night.

A12 B&W

In 1973 new federally mandated hydraulic bumpers were added to the Marathon. The new bumpers were essentially the 1962 chrome metal bumpers mated to shock absorbers. Somewhat awkard the extension forward left a visible gap below the front wheel opening and required a new longer splash pan. Parking lights were also increased in size.

In 1974 the purpose built taxicab received purpose built bumpers that were meant for the rough and tumble taxicab business.  To many the new non chrome plated aluminum bumpers took away some of the charm of the Marathon and projected a more industrial appearance.

This model was produced until the end of production in 1982.  Various minor changes were made but in essence this is the final incarnation of the Checker automobile.  The A12 spanned a 20 year cycle 1962 to 1982.

Specifications 1962

  • Shipping Weight 3410 LBS
  • Wheelbase 120 Inches
  • Overall Length 199.5
  • Front Track 60 Inches
  • Rear Tread 62.5 Inches

Production Estimates
source: Standard Catalogs of Independents, Krause Publications

  •  1962 1230
  • 1963 1030
  • 1964 960
  • 1965 930
  • 1966 1056
  • 1967 950
  • 1968 992
  • 1969 760
  • 1970 397