The latest Chrysler 300 made waves with its handsome and nostalgic styling when it hit Canadian roads some years ago—and it’s been selling strong ever since. By offering honest pricing, affordable luxury and a powertrain for any reason or season, Chrysler created an award-winning touring car that effectively put the American luxury sedan back on the map.
Say your ‘Thank-You’s’ Lincoln, Buick and Cadillac.
There’s a new 300 readying for imminent launch at Chrysler’s headquarters, so the time is now right to check out the soon-to-be-replaced model under our used car microscope.
And here we go.
The Chrysler 300 was released as a 2005 model that came with a 3.5 litre, 250-horsepower V6 or a 5.7 litre HEMI V8 with 340 horsepower. Note that standard cars were called the ‘300’, while the “300C” designation was reserved for HEMI-powered units.
Automatic transmissions were included on all 300s, and AWD could be paired with either of these engines. Rear wheel drive was standard. Yes, if you’re wondering, the HEMI-powered Chrysler 300C does great big dirty burnouts.
Horsepower ratings for the 5.7 litre engine were slightly upped later in the 300’s life, and a high-performance SRT-8 designated 300C model was eventually available with a 6.1 litre, 425-horsepower V8. Look for exterior and interior refreshing on newer models, too.
Like to go fast and sound badass doing it? Opt for a HEMI-powered model and modify the exhaust system to taste, if the seller hasn’t already. More concerned with fuel efficiency and lower insurance costs? The V6 engine should prove adequate, if not mind-blowingly quick.
Not surprisingly, the 300’s styling, available V8 power, honest pricing and comfort levels attracted many shoppers to showrooms-- while a plush ride, easy-to-use cabin and overall value sealed the deal.
Common gripes included slippery handling on snow and ice (proper tires and / or AWD will solve this), sub-par gas mileage with either engine, and limited visibility.
 |
| 2006 Chrysler 300 (Photo: Chrysler) |
Say your ‘Thank-You’s’ Lincoln, Buick and Cadillac.
There’s a new 300 readying for imminent launch at Chrysler’s headquarters, so the time is now right to check out the soon-to-be-replaced model under our used car microscope.
And here we go.
The Chrysler 300 was released as a 2005 model that came with a 3.5 litre, 250-horsepower V6 or a 5.7 litre HEMI V8 with 340 horsepower. Note that standard cars were called the ‘300’, while the “300C” designation was reserved for HEMI-powered units.
Automatic transmissions were included on all 300s, and AWD could be paired with either of these engines. Rear wheel drive was standard. Yes, if you’re wondering, the HEMI-powered Chrysler 300C does great big dirty burnouts.
Horsepower ratings for the 5.7 litre engine were slightly upped later in the 300’s life, and a high-performance SRT-8 designated 300C model was eventually available with a 6.1 litre, 425-horsepower V8. Look for exterior and interior refreshing on newer models, too.
Like to go fast and sound badass doing it? Opt for a HEMI-powered model and modify the exhaust system to taste, if the seller hasn’t already. More concerned with fuel efficiency and lower insurance costs? The V6 engine should prove adequate, if not mind-blowingly quick.
Not surprisingly, the 300’s styling, available V8 power, honest pricing and comfort levels attracted many shoppers to showrooms-- while a plush ride, easy-to-use cabin and overall value sealed the deal.
Common gripes included slippery handling on snow and ice (proper tires and / or AWD will solve this), sub-par gas mileage with either engine, and limited visibility.
 |
| 2007 Chrysler 300 SRT8 (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |