The Checker Marathon was a family of cars that was introduced for the 1961 model year. The Marathon was a rear wheel drive car that was mainly available as a four door sedan or five door station wagon, although a rare eight door wagon known as the Aerobus was also built. These cars were initially available with inline six engine options, but starting in 1965, small block V8 options became available. Although the standard Marathon did not lead a distinguished life, the fleet version gained great fame as a taxicab, often being referred to as the New York Taxicab. Largely unchanged over production, the Checker Marathon was discontinued in 1982.