The Import from Detroit Roars into the Sunset

A 300C in an unoccupied alley: Is there a better classroom for the burnout arts? We think not.

- ANDREW KROK

WOLANS 2023 CHRYSLER 300C

Highs: Riotous tail-happy antics, mean-as-ever exhaust note, a fitting finale for the 300.

Lows: Hilariously narrow all-season tires, limited to just 2200 examples, the end of an era.

Farewell tours are gold mines. Nearly every part of the Chrysler 300C is a decade old or more, but before the 300 goes away for good, parent company Stellantis is putting it all back out there for one last blowout.

The 1998 Chronos show car gave us a very early preview, but a more production-ready concept, badged 300C, appeared in 2003. When the first generation went on sale in early 2004, Ralph Gilles's styling efforts gave this long, low sedan so much presence that many folks likened it to a baby Bentley. It rode atop Chrysler's LX platform, which cribbed a lot from then-partner Mercedes-Benz. The 300's lower trims came with a 2.7- or 3.5-liter V-6, the 300C picked up a 340hp 5.7-liter V-8, and the range-topping SRT-8 that arrived the following year packed a 425-hp 6.1-liter Hemi. The 300's styling, interior comfort, and driving dynamics earned it 10Best honors in 2005 and 2006.