Move Over Caddy and Lincoln - There's a New Limo In TownThe Chrysler 300, with its bigger-than-life personality and associated size is one
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| The big gets bigger: Chrysler's new 300 LWB. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
of the most talked about vehicles, not only in America, but across the globe as well. The classiest and most luxurious of the LX-chassis triplets is about to hit the spotlights once again for DaimlerChrysler's introduction at this year's New York International Auto Show. The brand is preparing to introduce the new 2007 300 Long Wheelbase, the latest addition to the Chrysler and 300 family.
The
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| Longer mid-section gives the 300 LWB (below) a slightly less stalky stature than the regular car (above). (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
standard Chrysler 300 is a pretty large vehicle; standing at 196.8 inches with a 120.0 inches wheelbase, it's comparable to many high-end six-figure luxury cars in size, and has a longer wheelbase than the typical domestic long-wheelbase converts, the Cadillac DTS and Lincoln Town Car. The long wheelbase version adds an additional 6.1 inches to the length of the 300, all of which was added between the wheels. It provides a total of 46.0 inches of rear legroom, adding a total of 10.2 cu-ft of interior space.
Given that the long wheelbase carries around extra metal, glass
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| The 300 LWB will get the 250-hp 3.5-liter DOHC V6 in Touring trim, plus the 340-hp 5.7-liter OHV HEMI V8 in "C" versions. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
and interior furnishings, Chrysler will only offer the 300 LWB with the mid-range 250-hp 3.5-liter DOHC V6 for the Touring model, as well as the 340-hp 5.7-liter OHV HEMI V8 with MDS for the 'C' model. Chrysler did not mention if the stretch 300 will be offered with all wheel drive; though it's theoretically possible, it remains an unlikely proposition. And while we're on the subject of curious anomalies, wouldn't it be cool to have a 'security' version with bulletproofing, or a full-out high performance SRT-8 300 limo?
The
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| Bigger windows for a better view out, bigger doors for easier access in. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
Long Wheelbase versions of the 300 will feature slightly different standard equipment than the regular versions, although much of it is centered on the comfort of rear passengers. The elongated cars will receive fold-down writing tables, much like those you'd find on a Jaguar or an airliner, two 12-volt power supplies for charging laptops, cell phones and other electronics, footrests, plus folding vanity mirrors and additional reading lights. There are two other differences; special exterior body colors and optional pin striping.
Chrysler is no stranger to offering stretched out versions of its cars to
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| Space really is a luxury that the 300 LWB just can't be beat in. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
the masses. Throughout the '80s, the Chrysler group offered elongated EEK-chassis (Extended K-Car platform) cars, namely the Chrysler Imperial and New Yorker, the Plymouth Caravelle and Dodge 600. The 300, with its powerful engines, dashing looks and high quality fit and finish should prove to be more popular and glamorous than its predecessors.
"The 300 Long Wheelbase will have six inches more of the elegant, distinct design that made the Chrysler 300 the most-awarded new car in automotive history," said David Rooney, Director of Chrysler Group Marketing Communications.
