2004 Chrysler 300M in Asheville, NC - $4,990

In May 1998, DaimlerChrysler introduced the 300M sedan -- the first Chrysler letter car in almost 33 years -- to a waiting public. Renewing a rich tradition, the large Chrysler sedan is the nameplate's leader of a corporate movement for the hearts and minds of consumers ready for an American luxury sports sedan.

During the 2002 model year, the automaker turned up the heat with the introduction of the 300M Special. Built at the automaker's Brampton, Ontario, Canada, assembly plant, the 300M Special shares the same large car platform with the Dodge Intrepid and Chrysler Concorde.

Power comes from a high-output version of the all-aluminum 3.5L longitudinally mounted V-6 prime mover that receives a five horsepower and eight lbs-ft of torque increase over the standard 300M engine. The high-output motor is bolted to a performance-tuned version of the four-speed electronically controlled automatic transaxle with AutoStick with a 3.89 overall top gear ratio.

Launched as a "high-image" sedan in the European "tuner" image, the 300M Special is more than a mere cosmetic appearance. Starting with ground effects that surround the vehicle's lower body, the ride height has been lowered one half inch. The result is a sedan with a lower coefficient of drag than the regular 300M. Large 18-inch wheels and P245/45ZR18 uni-directional Michelin Pilot Sport performance tires make the most of the aerodynamic refinements.

Additional hardware improvements and upgrades include a higher performance brake system with ABS Plus, sport-tuned suspension, firm strut damping, tall rear jounce bumpers, and 17:1 ration firm-feel steering gear, which enhances on-center feel. Dual exhaust pipes with chrome tips integrated into the lower rear facia, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and 300M Special exterior badging complete the exterior and hardware changes.

Inside the cabin, all that work on ergonomics paid off. It is simply the best interior design Chrysler has produced. Everything has a sophisticated look and feel to it, while being located intuitively in the right place. The Special features instrument panel and accents have a carbon fiber appearance for a sporty, yet contemporary feel. The sill plates are brushed aluminum.

This sedan has plenty of room up front for driver and passenger and the huge rear seating area will transport three large adults in unmatched comfort. A 60/40 split-folding rear seat back with center armrest and cup holders increases the versatility of the large trunk.

After driving this sedan down two-lane highway and Interstate, hard through twisty roadways and fast down smooth straight-aways, Chrysler has hit a home run. Driving this large sedan is effortless fun. No matter what I threw at it, the goodness of the suspension and chassis bits coupled together with the beefy 18 inch tires worked in harmony to keep everything well under control.



Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 113.0; overall length: 197.8; width: 74.4; height: 55.5 -- measurements in inches

Engine: 3.5L SOHC 24-valve V-6 -- 255 hp at 6,500 rpm and 258 lbs-ft of torque at 3,950 rpm

Transmission: Four-speed electronically controlled automatic with AutoStick

EPA fuel economy: 18 city/26 highway using premium unleaded gasoline.

Cargo capacity: 16.8 cubic feet

Towing capacity: 2,000 pounds

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution, tire pressure monitoring system, low speed traction control, fog lamps, side impact intrusion protection, Xenon arc high intensity headlamps, HomeLink universal three-channel transceiver, full size spare tire with matching aluminum wheel, automatic programmable power door locks, remote keyless entry, security alarm and engine immobilizer. Optional safety/ security equipment includes front seat mounted side-impact airbags

Warranty

Basic: 3 year/36,000 mile Limited

Powertrain: 7 year/70,000 mile Deductible applies

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2003 Chrysler 300M Special starts from $32,215. Destination charge adds $680.

As tested

2003 Chrysler 300M Special sedan $32,215

External color: Brilliant Black

Crystal Pearl coat

Interior color: Dark Slate Grey

Destination charge $ 680

Front seat mounted side-impact airbags $ 390

Power moonroof $ 895

Total $34,180

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