The Chrysler 300C is still around (and being redesigned)

Yes, you can still buy these new. In our minds, the Chrysler 300C is already two hundred and thirty-six years old, but nothing could be further from the truth. At least, kind of. The 300C has been around in its current form since 2011, a generation before it was already on sale in 2004.

The collected pile

When the 300C was released in 2004, it was already a bit unusual. Although, the concept of a luxury sedan with a large engine in the front, a direct transmission in the middle and drive through the rear wheels is quite common in the United States.

But, that’s where the normalcy ends. Most 300C engines were produced individually. However, the car was also sold in other continents than North America, which led to significant modifications.

For example, a three-liter Mercedes-Benz V6 diesel was used for the European market. But Mercedes parts were not only borrowed in Europe. The rear suspension is based on the E-Class, the front suspension from the S-Class and the rest of the overall suspension parts were transferred from the E55 AMG.

That was it. No, the five-speed gearbox, rear differential, drive axle, ESP and ABS systems, steering system and almost all electronics are also from Mercedes-Benz. Yes, with many buttons. And the AWD system….. Later also the key. There is nothing else.

A final rush

The ‘new’ generation from 2011 has also come to Europe, but as a Lancia Thema. Meanwhile, these new versions are no longer seen in Europe, occasionally we still see the old 300C around, and even more frequently its long-time Dodge sibling, the Magnum.

To celebrate the end of a (long) era, Chrysler is coming up with one last rush. The final version of the 300C will be delivered to 2,200 people in North America and will be powered by a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 producing 492hp and 644Nm of torque. Nice and gentle again.

From each traffic light it takes you 4.3 seconds to reach 100 km/h and you don’t stop until you reach 257 km/h. The latest Chrysler 300C also comes with Brembo calipers, active suspension, custom exhaust and forged rims. It will be released in 2023 and will cost 55,000 US dollars.

Ps We also don’t know why they didn’t put a 6.2 Hellcat V8 with 700 hp in it.