The Chrysler 300C went cool when it was revived in 2005 with a rear-wheel drive, HEMI V8, and upscale styling. Now, nearly 20 years later, the company says goodbye to the 300 with a limited-edition 300C that builds on its legacy. Old SRT variant.
Starting under the hood, the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 makes a triumphant return with 485 hp (362 kW/492 hp) and 475 lb-ft (644 Nm) of torque. That’s a big jump over the 5.7-liter HEMI V8, which produces a more modest 363 hp (271 kW/368 hp) and 394 lb-ft (534 Nm) of torque.
Read also: 2023 Chrysler 300 gets a minor update and a mysterious special edition
While not the Hellcat many fans were hoping for, it does manage the 2023 Chrysler 300C to sprint from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.3 seconds. If drivers keep their feet fixed, the model will run the quarter mile in 12.4 seconds and eventually reach a top speed of 160 mph (257 km/h).
Connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission, the engine is designed for “maximum performance” and can shift in just 160 milliseconds. Buyers will also find a limited-slip differential and a four-piston Brembo brake system with red calipers. They’re joined by an adaptive damping suspension system and an active exhaust that pumps out the roar of the V8 through two large terminals.
The 300’s design has stood the test of time and Chrysler doesn’t mess with success because the high-performance model has a relatively low profile. However, there are a few clues including the three-color 300C badge on the grille. It’s joined by a rear spoiler and 20-inch forged wheels wrapped in all-season performance tires. Elsewhere are darkened lighting units, black chrome trims, and a limited color palette that includes glossy black, velvet red, and bright white.
While the car eschews its brand’s tortoise-inspired trim, buyers will find black leather front seats with heating and ventilation as well as embossed 300C logos. They are joined by contrast silver stitching, carbon fiber inserts, and piano black accents. We can also see alloy pedals and an 8.4-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
We can expect to know full details near its launch next spring, but Chrysler has confirmed that the model will come with a heated steering wheel as well as a variety of driver assistance systems. Among these are Advanced Brake Assist, Lane Departure Warning Plus, and Full Speed Collision Warning Plus.
Chrysler Currently accepting reservations Pricing starts at $55,000 before destination ($1695). This is very reasonable and fans are doing better quickly as only 2,000 units will be offered in the US. It will be even rarer in its native Canada, where only 200 units will be available.
This story has been updated with live photos from the floor of the Detroit Auto Show. Could you Follow our coverage of NAIAS here.
Mike Gauthier/Carscops and Chrysler Photos
