The Chrysler 300M is a full-size luxury car that was produced by DaimlerChrysler from 1999 to 2004. It is a front-wheel drive, V6 engined car using the Chrysler LH platform. Versus its platform mates, the 300M was roughly shorter to make it more easily exportable to Europe. Priced above the Concorde and identically to the LHS, the 300M shared Chrysler's flagship position with the LHS until the LHS's discontinuation after 2001, upon which it became Chrysler's sole flagship model.

Design

thumb|1999 Chrysler 300M

Prior to Chrysler redesigning the LH-cars in 1998, the Eagle Vision filled the "import-fighter" segment. Its second-generation replacement was reportedly benchmarked against the BMW 5 Series, yet with Chrysler discontinuing the entire Eagle line after 1998, the automaker shifted this vehicle to the Chrysler lineup, bringing back the famed "300" model name. Although the cars were neither rear-wheel-drive special-production models, nor V8-powered with engines rated at 300 horsepower as were the historic models, the 300M used the next letter available in the 300 Letter Series, following the 1965 300L. Sharing its powertrain and interior with the Chrysler LHS, the 300M was some ten inches shorter in overall length, allowing it to fit the European "5-metre" (16.4 ft) size class for exports to Europe. Performance-type dual exhaust, high-performance brakes, and 18-inch Z-rated tires were standard, with Michelin Pilot Sport 245/45R18 performance tires optional. Other standard features of the Special included premium "Waterfall" leather seats, signal mirrors, body cladding, and slightly lower ride height. This model also included high-intensity discharge headlamps and imitation-carbon-fiber interior trim panels that replaced the standard woodgrain trim panels. A limited number of 300M "Pro-Am" models were marketed during 2002. These versions included an Infinity audio system with subwoofers as well as two-toned leather interiors. The Pro-Am also came with a set of limited edition golf clubs and a holder for a golf bag in the trunk. In 2003, new colors were added, a six-disc CD changer replaced the four-disc changer, and the changer controls were added to the stereo.

2004 brought optional Sirius Satellite Radio and an optional stereo with DVD-based GPS navigation.

For 2005, both the 300M and the Concorde were replaced with the Chrysler 300.

Awards

The 300M was Motor Trend magazine's Car of the Year for 1999. It also was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1999 and 2000.

See also

  • Chrysler 300 letter series
  • Chrysler 300 non-letter series

References

  • https://www.300mclub.org/ phpBB Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club - The Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club is a member-based, non-profit social and recreational club, bringing together people from around the world.
  • http://300m.nl Chrysler 300M Dutch Club
  • Chrysler.com - 2001 Chrysler 300M homepage, courtesy of Internet Archive