Comments: 1-15, 16-25
Nothing so far.
This 2005 Chrysler 300 (base; not "C" class or Hemi-equipped) car provides incredible value for the money spent.
Even without the Hemi engine and being equipped with just the basic automatic transmission, the car has impressive power in terms of ft-lbs of torque and general powertrain responsiveness. The aluminum 3.5 litre engine coupled with the car's rear-wheel drive provides the kind of effortless acceleration that can get the driver into trouble when unaware of the local law enforcement's radar-toting presence.
Unique, eye-catching body design is well-complimented by the luxurious and surprisingly roomy interior.
The Mercedes influence is found everywhere, from exterior styling points and mechanical features to the car's interior fit and finish. In every respect, this is one very "tight" automobile.
While responsiveness to the need for speed is impressive and the car's fully independent suspension likely helps improve the general ride, the car does handle like the large sedan it is. This is no import sportscar and the drive is reminded of this anytime he or she takes a curve a little too quick.
All I can hope for now is that all the mechanical and cosmetic features that give this moderately priced car its wonderfully European feel remain intact for years to come.
The 1950's are back! Go to your nearest DaimlerChrysler dealer and see this car!
Must be some upgrade package to this car as the base 300 uses the 2.7 liter V6, not the High Output 3.5 V6 as you mention. Understand that the 2.7 is almost as quick as the 3.5 until you add more than the driver inside the car, then the difference is more notable. Gotta admit, however, this "chop top" looking cruiser is definitely a looker, regardless of the technology under the hood.
In Canada, the base engine is the 3.5L V6 for us.
Wow, now I'm impressed! Have had the car for only a week, but it's a real keeper. Wasn't sold on the 'big sedan' thing at first, but what a car to drive. I had to hold off driving the 'C' for fear I'd have that one in the driveway instead. Having said that, the 3.5L. is plenty responsive, and for a sled it handles and corners like a dream. The added bonus is it is a real head turner, and for the money I challenge anyone to find a better buggy.
The 3.5L V6 is a good engine, but in 0-60 MPH tests are rather disapointing. 0-60 in 9 seconds is 1 second slower than a Grand Prix which is bigger. If you want power to go with the looks, then go with the HEMI, 0-60 in 6.3 seconds is much better, although Grand Prix GTP is cheaper and gets 0-60 in 6.5 seconds with a V6 and it's the same with the Cadillac CTS and what else is nice about the CTS is that the 3.6L V6 takes regular fuel; yes regular fuel. But if I didn't care about the gas, then I would take the Chrysler 300 as it brings back memories to the old cars from the 60's.
If at all possible please update us when the car has about 35,ooo miles. I would like to know how it has held up after that amount of mileage. All cars when they are brand new are nice to drive.
Well my chrysler dealer is giving a 7 year unlimited warranty so I think this car will hold up. A tip anycar is walk out when they say the price, saying something like the other dealer is giving me a much better ofer. Then the dealer will take the price down and give you incentives.
After 7 years i'll proably trade the car in or something. PRobaly after 5 or 6 years even. So it's a good deal none the less.
A long warranty does not mean the car will hold up.
KIA has a great warranty, but see how many complaints there are on this site about their build quality.
Thanks for that valuable tip about negotiating though.
I like the 300s a lot, and hope to own one. I don't think it will be a hemi, due to the poor gas mileage.
Too Bad the only Mercedes parts are primarily in the HEMI equipped and not the 6 cyllinder versions. They only get the crappy dodge/chrysler transmissions. The only Mercedes part is the rear suspension components, whereas the HEMI gets a Mercedes transmission as well. Too bad Mercedes had nothing to do with the interior, which could use a little more flash, but that would only add the cash required for one.
Please post comments after it's been through the winter; how it handles on ice and snow. In Virginia, winters can be rough so I'd like to know how the "Mack Daddy" handles on the ice and snow. I'm seeing more of them on the road and they always turn my head!
I am now the proud owner of a 300. I purchased the 300 C modal from Ontairo Jeep Chrysler. I love the interior room and the features. I researched several vehicles, including the Lexus 430 and the Infinity g35 sedan. The 300 gave me all the fetures of the lexus and more than the ifinity for about 20,000 less. Also the sales experience was fantastic it was the best car buying experence that I've had. My sales guy "Kevin" knew all about the car and got me set up with rims and tires. The car has gotten more attention then my corvette. I highly recommend this car.
I test drove both the base and hemi versions yesterday. The base car 25K, and the hemi at 34K. The base model seems to be a great car for the money. However, the dealer offered no discount beyond $ 1,000 if you financed with Chrysler. The hemi was a demo with 6K miles. Only wanted to discount $2,000. Acted like discount was a very big deal. (it's a used car.)
If I buy one, it will be a base. But I'd have to get a better deal than what that dealer offered me. DPC.
Although the new Chrysler 300 is a very attractive package.
I believe 5 years from now it will be known as just another Chrysler model with reliability issues and one that doesn't age well.
To sell a vehicle to compete with world class cars, and price it the way they have, they must've cut corners along the way.
I would worry about the electronics going haywire.
Also be cautious about the 300 pulling to the right.
I have heard that a service bulletin was issued last summer regarding a fix for this issue. Has anyone experienced that problem?
Actually, the Hemi-equipped 300C models get halfway decent gas mileage considering the 340 horsepower. They have a cylinder shutoff that cuts out an entire bank when there is not as much power needed, especially while crusing on the highway. The EPA figures for the different engines are:
17/25 for the Hemi
19/27 for the 3.5 liter
21/28 for the 2.7 liter
The EPA does not have the figures for the SRT-8 model on their site (http://www.fueleconomy.gov/), but I have them from Car and Driver magazine. The SRT-8 model has engine modifications that push the horsepower up to 425 (and 0-60 times below five seconds). It also ditches the cylinder shutoff, and that combined with the performance engine parts drops the mileage to 14/19 (into the range that requires gas guzzler tax). It will be interesting to see what kind of mileage the upcoming Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 gets; it might give the H2 and my ancient Toronado a run for their gas money.
I own a 300 (just the base), but it is the MP CHRYSLER EDITION, with a sunroof. We have experienced a few minor problems with the car. Just like a person said above, yes there was a notice about the wiring on the car and we had some issues regarding that. we even took it in to get fixed, but the headlights and dash lights still flicker when it is cold out. Also, since we got the sunroof, there is a very annoying rattle right over the back seat. We have taken it in almost 3 times and they still haven't found out what it is. The car itself is a tank. We have had no mechanical problems and for once the air conditioner works in a chrysler. The car is wonderful except for the few minor problems. just a warning, DO NOT GET THE SUNROOF. it is more trouble then it is worth.