2005 Chrysler 300C AWD Road Test

With the Viper, Prowler, PT Cruiser, and Crossfire already in its portfolio, it's safe to say that no one does the transition

The appeal of the 300 runs the spectrum, from the young and trendy to the high-profile businessperson. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

from dream to reality better than Chrysler. The bold 300 is yet another concept car transformation paying homage to Chrysler's heritage in a stark, time-warping body that fuses muscle with a technological spin. Nowhere else on earth, except elsewhere in DaimlerChrysler's portfolio, will you find variable-displacement Hemi power merged with state-of-the-art components and all-wheel drive.

I find it amazing that that this XXL-sized behemoth plucks the 'sweet' strings of an extremely wide generational and demographic base. Obviously, this product appeals to the younger, trendier types who are drawn to the 300's audacious, Bentley-esque looks and proportions. It has also been a hit amongst fans of American automobiles with attitude; it looks the part with its choptop roof, foursquare stance, intimidating headlight and grille combo and plenty of blingin' chrome brightwork, not unlike its distinctive befinned siblings of yore. As a car of both substance and character, it will also be loved by the ever-critical, high-profile businessperson and

The 300 has an extremely spacious cabin with plenty of room to stretch out. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

wouldn't be out of place as the number one form of transportation for cigar-chomping mobsters.

But you need not be a person of fame (or infamy) to enjoy the 300, with its extremely spacious cabin. In front and in back, there's plenty of room to stretch out. With four on board, rear passengers can comfortably cross their legs, and with three-up on the back seat, there's no rubbing shoulders or knocking elbows. The only downside is the hump in the carpet from the driveline, which makes riding the center seat slightly awkward, but not uncomfortable. Three-point seatbelts are standard for all occupants, while the airbag count includes two, two-stage frontal airbags as well as full-length side-curtain airbags.