The 19781990 Dodge Omni played a vital role in rescuing Chrysler from financial ruin. Though the 19811989 Chrysler KCar is credited for Chrysler's financial turnaround, however there would have never been a KCar had it not been for the successful launch of the 1978 Dodge Omni. The Dodge Omni proved that a U.S. automaker could make a reliable, affordable, popular, and attractive frontwheel drive compact car.