2005 Chrysler 300C
Vehicle: 2005 Chrysler 300C with with T pkg
Price as tested: CDN$44195
Performance: The 300C is powered by Chrysler’s Hemi V8 which bumps out 340 horses and 390 lb/ft of torque. Power is never an issue considered its astonising low-end torque. On the other hand, this powerplant never run out of breath at the top end of the scale. Its not only flexible, its also willing to rev and got superb refinement. It also feels a lot smoother and quieter than many equivalent American V8 counterparts. Except the Autostick that feels awkward when pushing left and right for up and downshifts, its a very good tranny itself that combine willingness and responsiveness.
Handling: Just like the Magnum, 300 uses previous Mercedes E-Class platform. When pushed through the slalom, it has more safe understeer than its Dodge silibing and ESP kicks in more abruptly. With its FR configuration and near-ideal 50/50 set-up, it feels relatively balanced through corners. On the other hand, the steering feels as sharp and responsive. It got acceptable and controllable body rolls when pushed the slalom. Ride comfort is excellent which means you don’t feel and roughness on the road, thanks to its smart use of rebound damping.
Brakes: 300′s brakes have done a really good job in today’s rainy test. Its stops are short and pedal modulation is excellent. The ABS also kicks in at the right time when needed.
Interior: The overall ambience of 300′s interior is barely acceptable considered its 44k price tag. It got a nice set of instrumentation, comfortable leather seats and spacious back seat. Along with efficient auto climate control and tasteful wood trim, the driving position is also easily found thanks to power adjustment and tilt/telescope steering. Its a pity the whole interior is killed by the cheap materials, high window sill that limits visibility. Not to mention that dreadful hazard light button that is as tiny as a cell phone button.
In terms of cargo space, the high sill creates high liftover which is a nightmare for carrying heavy luggage. Thankfully, it got uninstrusive trunk hinges that won’t crash into anything below.
Conclusion: The 300C could well be the best sedan Chrysler has ever built. It got plenty of V8 Hemi power, handles decently and has lots of luxurious features for 44 grand. Anyone who is considering an ES330 and TL should take a serious look at this car.
OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2005 CHRYSLER 300C
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Performance: 4.75/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4.5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 2.25/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 2.5/5
Value-for-money: 5/5
Overall rating: 4.25/5