The Chrysler 300 is an iconic sedan that is often seen on roads across the country.  Making its debut in 1955, the 300 has taken on various forms over the years.  The 300 has appeared in numerous "letters", ranging from the 300M to 300J, amongst others.  With each model came significant changes in styling and performance upgrades.

The look and feel of the sedan have evolved greatly over time and has appeared as a muscle car, luxury sedan, and even a station wagon.  The 4-door sedan has often been favorably reviewed for its comfort and overall versatility.  Here we will take an in-depth look at the evolution of the Chrysler 300, from its humble origins to current offerings.

The First Chrysler 300 Was Made In 1955

Chrysler 300 Series Sedan Evolution Dodge History
via classic.com

The original Chrysler 300 featured a 331ci HEMI V8 that had an output of around 300 horsepower. Fitting with the characteristics of a Dodge HEMI engine, it had a hemispherical combustion chamber. The engineering of the original 300 model garnered it records for the fastest production car available at the time. It was a true pioneer and consistently surprised with its performance; Lee Petty won three NASCAR victories driving a Chrysler 300.

The following year would include the debut of the Chrysler 300’s lettering schemes, beginning with the “300B”. Along with this new designation came a new powerplant, increasing the horsepower rating to 355 while adding a 3-speed Torqueflite automatic transmission. With these improvements, the 300B was able to achieve a top speed of approximately 139.9 miles per hour.

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Chrysler 300 Series Sedan Evolution Dodge History
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As with many ‘50s era cars, the Chrysler 300 tastefully implemented humble tail fins to accentuate its style. These would evolve into larger fins by 1957, the year in which the first convertible edition was offered. Virgil Exner was chief of design and implemented styling changes as part of the illustrious “Forward Look” philosophy.

By 1957, the Chrysler 300 had emerged victorious at the Flying Mile at Daytona for the third consecutive year. 1957-1959 would see the introduction of C, D, and E models. A 392ci HEMI V8 would remain the engine of choice until 1959 when it was upgraded to a 413ci, 6.8L “Golden Lion” wedge V8. The wedge V8 was called such for its wedge-like combustion chamber.

Chrysler 300 Models Embodied Various Personalities

Chrysler 300 Series Sedan Evolution Dodge History
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In the following years leading up to 1962, the most notable changes in 300 models would be design modifications and the addition of cross-ram induction on the 1960 300F. By this time, the car was capable of reaching 145 miles per hour at Daytona. An optional power upgrade was offered on the ’62 300H, providing an output of around 405 horsepower.

Although the 1963 Chrysler 300J was one of the most powerful in the entire line with 390 horsepower as standard, just 400 of them were sold to the public. A boom in sales would come with the subsequent model, the 300K, of which 3,647 were sold. After the 300L was introduced in 1965, the unique personality of the 300 series was to remain an artifact in Chrysler’s history book until 1999.

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Chrysler 300 Series Sedan Evolution Dodge History
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The stark difference in styling between older models and the new design introduced in 1999 doesn’t seem logical. Nonetheless, the 300M derived hints of inspiration from the more classic models. This time, it employed a 3.5L V6 with around 253 horsepower. This model would be discontinued in 2004; The following year would see the introduction of the Chrysler 300 that is most often seen on the road today.

Beginning in 2005, the Chrysler 300 appeared with more rectangular styling. It was a solid choice for a luxury sedan, offering rear or all-wheel drive and a HEMI V8 pumping out 345hp. An SRT8 version was also offered, fitted with a 6.1L V8 capable of a stunning 425 horsepower. This was a unique model that would be eventually discontinued in 2015, ending its run with increased power at 470hp.

The Chrysler 300 Has Evolved Gracefully Over The Years

Chrysler 300 Series Sedan Evolution Dodge History
via topspeed.com

Although the lettering did not continue as with the more classic models, the Chrysler 300 has been continuously restyled to fit modern times. It appears today as a stylish luxury sedan with choices of a 3.6L Pentastar V6 or 5.7L HEMI V8.

The modern-day HEMI has been augmented to give out 363 horsepower and 394lb-ft of torque. Current models (for 2020) start an MSRP of approximately $30,040, a stark contrast to the original offered for just $4,109 in 1955.

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Chrysler 300 Series Sedan Evolution Dodge History
via chrysler.com

Due to its interesting legacy, older Chrysler 300 models are definitely coveted today. Hagerty values a 1955 Chrysler 300C in Concours condition at around $108,000 today, although it's likely some models have sold for significantly more. This lineup has seen numerous steps in its evolution and remains one of the most iconic Chrysler models today.

SOURCES:  AutoNXT, Chrysler Club Of America, Hagerty, Money Inc

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