Top 5 Chrysler 300C Models of All-Time
The Chrysler 300 is soon to be no more. The brand’s big, retro inspired sedan has enjoyed moderate success over the past two decades, but all good things come to end. Of course, this isn’t the first time the 300 has been discontinued, and it may not be the last time we see the 300 moniker either.
Chrysler is sending the current model line out on a high note, by releasing the limited edition 2023 Chrysler 300C. Although the ‘C’ wasn’t always the most potent version of the big sedan, it’s easily the most recognizable name, instantly associated with the Hemi V8 engine.
As a tribute to Chrysler’s luxury muscle sedan, we’re looking back at the top 5 most iconic 300C models in history. Below they are listed in chronological order.
1957 Chrysler 300C
Originally conceived in the 1950s, the 300 ushered in the famed Chrysler Letter Cars. These were high-performance luxury coupes that featured big V8 engines, making a ton of power for their time. Although there was a 1955 C-300, it was starting in 1956 with the Chrysler 300B where each year the car advanced one letter in the alphabet until the 1966 300M.
As the third entry in the car’s lineage, the 1957 Chrysler 300C featured dramatically different styling than the 300B and introduced the 392 cubic inch Hemi V8. Equipped to the 300C, the engine produced an impressive 375 or 390 hp depending on options. A special personal luxury coupe or convertible, the 1957 300C is still regarded as one of the best Chrysler letter cars ever created.
2005 Chrysler 300C
After the special letter series cars ended, the Chrysler 300 soldiered on until its discontinuation in 1971. The name would reappear as a trim package in 1979, and then as a variation of the brand’s LH front-wheel drive platform, called the 300M, from 1999 until 2004.
In 2005, the Chrysler 300 really returned in earnest, inspired by the iconic letter cars. Although it wasn’t the most powerful version of the car, the 300C garnered the most attention. With a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine sending power to the rear, or all four wheels, it was the sweet spot in the lineup. It looked like nothing else on the road and was a real return to form for the traditional American sedan.
2006 Chrysler 300C Heritage Edition
A year after the model returned, the 300C Heritage Edition was introduced. It featured even more styling cues from the famed 1957 300C, including chrome trim and a replica badge with the red, white, and blue color scheme. Inside there were exclusive details for the Heritage Edition, including the seats.
Despite still wearing pedestrian 225/60R18 tires, Chrysler upped the car’s performance with an upgraded suspension, better shifting five-speed automatic transmission, a more responsive performance steering gear, and a performance exhaust.
2011 Chrysler 300C
The modern 300 entered its second generation for the 2011 model year. It was more of a heavy revision than all-new platform. It featured more contemporary styling and a higher quality interior. The 300C still used the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 which now made 360 hp. It could still be had with rear- or all-wheel drive.
2023 Chrysler 300C
After being discontinued in 2021, the 300C makes a return for the model’s final year. Production is limited and the 2023 300C is sure to be a collector’s item. A quick glance at the equipment list reveals that the new car is closer in relation to previous SRT models than the former 300C.
It houses a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 that puts down an impressive 485 hp. Also equipped are adjustable dampers, Brembo brakes, and a booming exhaust system. The exterior is tweaked for a more aggressive look and the interior has been upgraded as well.
As an entire package, it’s a fitting send-off for a car that enjoyed such a long production run.
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A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.
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Too bad it couldn't live up to the 2 door legacy of the '57!!
I owned a 2006 300 SRT8 and 2012 300 SRT.
Traded the 300 for a Charger Hellcat.
For the 300 not to be given a HELLCAT was betrayal.
taking my money to Cadillac.