New Chrysler 300C SRT8 is $20,000 Cheaper and 25-HP More Powerful than Cadillac CTS-V

The tuners who have flocked to the 300C since its inception will be the first to say that $20,000 can buy a whole lot of customized

Tuners will be the first to say that $20,000 can buy a whole lot of customized upgrades. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

upgrades, whether directly to the powertrain or to the popular sedan's styling.

The 300C SRT8 not only makes 25 additional horsepower over the CTS-V, but also an additional 25 lb-ft of torque at 420 compared to 395.

While a low 5 second run to 100 km/h can be expected, as previously mentioned, a quarter mile (400 m) will come around in the high 13 second range and zero to 160 to zero in the mid 16-second range.

So what is responsible for the surge in engine output? Obviously much is gained by upping the HEMI's displacement from 5.7- to 6.1-liters, a task that included boring out the cylinder diameters by 3.5 millimeters apiece. To strengthen the modified block, the SRT engineers added reinforcements and while they were at it,

Much is gained by upping the HEMI's displacement from 5.7- to 6.1-liters, a task that included boring out the cylinder diameters by 3.5 millimeters apiece. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

increased coolant flow. A forged steel crankshaft was used to minimize vibration, while stronger powder-metal connecting rods capped off by oil squirter-cooled floating-pin pistons were attached. Underneath, a modified oil pan is said to reduce oil foaming.

To up engine speed and effectively increase horsepower the SRT techs modified the cams, increasing revs by 15 percent to almost 6,200 rpm - the current 5.7-liter HEMI tops out at 5,400 rpm. The engine's hollowed out valve stems also reduce drag due to their lighter weight. Interestingly, the hollows are filled with sodium for dissipating heat more effectively.