Chrysler C has the gee factor

The Chrysler 300C was a surprise hit with its big, bold chrome grille, tall slab sides and chopped roofline.

It was a time when bigger was better, when automotive prestige was measured by the metre.

Many Australians in the 1940s aspired to own an American car of the sort being built and sold by Holden and Ford. But by the time Chrysler released the 300C in 2005, there had been a seismic shift in the market and US cars were regarded as gas guzzlers that were poorly built and less refined than European or Japanese rivals.

But the 300C had a number of things going for it that would help it find its niche; US cars still had a following here, it was built and backed by DaimlerChrysler and it was distinctively styled.

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The 300C was a surprise hit. With its big, bold chrome grille, tall slab sides and chopped roofline it caught the imagination of a section of the local motoring public.

Spend time in a 300C and it quickly became evident it was a head-turner. People might not necessarily have known what it was, but they sure took notice of it.

Chrysler was aiming to steal a slice of the big-car market from the Fairlane LTD and Statesman Caprice, and it succeeded.

Under the bonnet was either a 183kW 3.5-litre, single-overhead-camshaft V6 or a 250kW 5.7-litre Hemi V8 that had cylinder deactivation to save on fuel bills.

Chrysler claimed cylinder deactivation — it was called MDS — was good for 10 to 20 per cent savings.

The V6 was given a four-speed auto; the V8 a five-speed auto with a slapstick manual change.

On the road, the 300C was surprisingly un-American. Instead of the expected sloppiness, it steered with precision and feel, braked confidently and the handling was well balanced and reassuring.

Not such a surprise was the 300C's ride, which was comfortable and absorbent with good isolation and little noise intrusion, even on its 18-inch wheels and tyres.

Standard gear included climate-controlled airconditioning, cruise control, fog lamps, CD stacker, remote central locking, full electrics and full leather trim.

On the lot

For a V6 pay $36,000-$40,000 for a 2005-2006 model; add $5000-$6000 for a Hemi V8. Though style is an attraction for 300C buyers, the allure of the Hemi V8 probably makes it a better resale proposition than the V6.

In the shop

It's early days in the life of the 300C, but owners report few problems so far. Nothing significant has come to light; the issues reported are minor and have been addressed by Chrysler.

The softish ride can result in damage to the under body and suspension if driven too fast over speed humps, so make note of any noise coming from the suspension.

Replacing low-profile tyres fitted to large diameter aftermarket alloy wheels can be expensive, so check the price of the tyres before deciding on a car with big wheels.

In a crunch

Mass is a great protector when it comes to a crash, and the 300C is well endowed in that area. It weighs more than 1800kg.

Being a large car, the 300C is not as agile as a smaller one, but its chassis is well balanced and electronic stability control helps out. The anti-skid brakes are powerful and its steering lets the driver know what's going on, so it has a powerful primary safety package.

Airbags all round complete a modern safety arsenal that will provide good occupant protection.

At the pump

A heavy car with a big V8 isn't a recipe for low fuel consumption, so be prepared for a shock.

The cylinder deactivation system on the Hemi V8 is a mitigating factor in its favour, but the 5.7-litre V8 will still be thirsty.

Expect 15 litres for 100km around town and 12 litres on the highway for both V6 and V8 models.

Owner's views

Shane Hann was one of the first to place an order when Chrysler imported the cars in 2005. Back then these cars were relatively unknown, and the number of looks and comments were astounding. He has done a few modifications; changing the exhaust so the Hemi can really sing, fitting 22-inch rims and dropping the ride height 35mm.

Paul Carton is still grinning after two years and 30,000km at the wheel of a 300C. He says it's big and comfortable, but oozes power, and he loves driving it. He gets less than 15 litres/100km commuting and about 11 on the highway run.

The bottom line

Striking looks turn heads, but the beauty of the 300C is more than skin deep. 79/100

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