Used Chrysler 300C review: 2010-2011

In a sea of similarity the imposing looks of the Chrysler 300C stood out and appealed to many buyers who wanted to be seen driving something fresh and different.

NEW

Chrysler was allied with Mercedes-Benz when the 300C was launched here back in 2005, but that relationship was terminated some time ago and the carmaker is now part of the Fiat empire. There has long been a hankering for American cars in this country and the 300C was warmly welcomed when it hit our shores with its blend of bold styling and V8 power.

Its muscular looks appealed to many buyers tired of the sameness of the cars coming from Europe, and the quirky styling of Asian models. It was different; it was tough, and appealed to many Australians.

Inside, it had everything you could want, with leather, woodgrain and chrome, and a host of features. The seats were comfortable and there was ample room for five adults, and there was a sizeable boot as well.

The V8 engine has an enduring appeal with car buyers, it equates with prestige and status, and Chrysler offered two big V8s in the 300C. For those who were happy to do without the excess there was a V6 and a turbo-diesel.

The 3.5-litre V6 powered the entry model and delivered all the zip you could want, while the common-rail turbo-diesel extended the distance between fuel stops for those seeking a more economical ride. But the V8s were the stars of the show.

At 5.7 litres and 6.1 litres, both were big capacity engines and offered the smooth punch that is characteristic of a sizeable V8, but they also delivered the fuel economy of a smaller engine. That was the result of Chrysler's cylinder shutdown system (MDS) that switched off as many as four of the eight cylinders under light throttle cruise conditions to save fuel.

All engines were mated to five-speed automatic transmissions, and the final drive was through the rear wheels. The size and weight of the 300C became evident on the road, but it was smooth and comfortable at all times, and handled with surprising aplomb.

NOW

The American car industry fell well behind the rest of the world in terms of build quality, its cars were often shoddily built, and there were complaints about the 300C even after Mercedes-Benz took control of the company and began to apply its standards.

Fit and finish was the focus of most of the critical comments, there was little adverse comment about the car's reliability. The 300C is generally reliable and potential used car buyers can approach them with reasonable confidence. Still, it's well worthwhile getting your chosen car tested before you do the deal.

You could test it yourself if you're confident of being able put it through its paces and identify any issue it might have. If you're not that confident have a mechanic experienced in working on the brand go over it for you. Always check the service record to make sure your chosen car has been maintained properly with regular oil changes.

SMITHY SAYS

A worthy prestige choice, providing you are comfortable with the fuel consumption.

Chrysler 300C 2010-2011
Price: $39,990 to $64,990
Engine: 3.5-litre V6, 183 kW/340 Nm; 5.7-litre V8, 250 kW/525 Nm; 6.1-litre V8, 317 kW/569 Nm; 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, 160 kW/510 Nm.
Transmission: 5-speed auto, RWD.
Economy: 10.5 L/100 km (3.5 V6), 11.9 L/100 km (5.7 V8), 14.2 L/100 km (6.1 V8), 7.7 L/100 km (DT)
Body: 4-door sedan, 4-door wagon
Variants: V6, Hemi, SRT8, CRD
Safety: Front, side and curtain airbags, ABS brakes, stability control.