It’s a tragedy that Top Gear slagged off the Chrysler 300C so much, because it’s stunning to look at. And stunningly cheap, too, if they do release it here in the UK for (a pitifully low) £29000. I mean, that’s nothing. There are some of you out there who will be thinking: that’s thirty grand! You could get a Boxster for that! Yeah, I could, if I liked Porsches, which I don’t. The 300C looks like the Mafia’s dream car. Fantastic looks, especially in black. I mean, look at it. Wow. Looks like it should be armour-plated or something. I’d feel like Adam Susan driving around in that. Cool.
I’ve pretty much come to the conclusion that whatever my next car will be is basically not going to be any faster than my current one, because for it to be so I’ll have to buy something like a BMW M3, and that’s a cool fifty thou or so. So I’ll stick with current levels of performance and instead more luxury. The Chrysler, in addition to looking like the car that Lucky Luciano would be driving around in if he were still with us, has everything built in. Everything. Say what you like about the Yanks, they know about chucking in all the electronic wizardry stuff for nothing. But, if the Top Gear crew are right, it wallows like a fat hippo when you’re actually driving it. Damn. My quest to know what I’ll be buying next (no S2000, it’s only got two seats; no M5 or M3, they’re too expensive; no 300C, it drives like a pig) continues unabated.
You’re mad! It’s a big ugly metal box on wheels.
Posted by Jason on November 8th, 2004.
I’m getting a mini cooper :
Posted by fizz on November 8th, 2004.
Ah, I don’t think it’s ugly. I think it’s imposing and majestic. This, I concede, is in the eye of the beholder, but there you go :) I don’t like little cars, really; something with a bit of weight behind it is what I like, as long as it has decent performance and isn’t some sluggish sixteen-ton-weight of a motor…
Posted by sil on November 8th, 2004.
If you can’t smash your enemies off a mountainside with minimal impact to your own car, what’s the point? You just don’t get that with a Porsche.
Posted by Gary Fleming on November 8th, 2004.
Looks like someone’s shunted it back and front. Therefore, you should buy it as you can then make a matching top.
This comment brought to you by the Slag Aq Off On His Website Day committee.
Posted by Paul Freeman on November 8th, 2004.
And sat on it.
Posted by Tom on November 8th, 2004.
Ha haa! See? Gary gets it!
Plus, Paul, sod off. :)
Posted by sil on November 8th, 2004.
The mini may be small, but it can fit me inside with no problems, it’s quick (very quick), insurable and thanks to my company discount is going to come with lots and lots of toys :)
Posted by fizz on November 8th, 2004.
can someone please tell me what about the car is ugly? I’ve seen them roaming around the USA and I think they’re distinctive, unique and eye-catching. And I don’t even have any shares in Chrysler ;-)
Posted by badly dubbed boy on November 8th, 2004.
In the USA, it probably looks neat and compact, just by comparison with the Armoured Personnel Carriers everybody else is driving :-)
Posted by Jason on November 8th, 2004.
Personally, Aq, I agree with you – I think it looks great :) I would probably want to give it a drive before deciding whether to buy – I suspect my standards are slightly lower than the TG guys, and thus it might not be too bad.
Of course, what is really important is whether or not it has good gadgets, esp SatNav……
Posted by mrben on November 9th, 2004.
I,ve driven one for 2 hours from Leicester to King’s Lynn. This car rocks, it is big, smooth and poowerful. Fantastic gearbox and awesome acceleration. Cornering is a bit wooly but who cares, it aint a rally car. LOVE IT
Posted by Jools on November 15th, 2004.
OMFG !!
This ride is the bombbbbbb
Chrysler 300c chopped by Westcoast Customs…
http://www.westcoastcustoms.com/Showroom/Images/Cars/300/DSC_0039.jpg
Posted by jebliano on December 13th, 2004.
i agre it RULES
Posted by anova1bitesdadust on February 2nd, 2005.
I’m currently drivin the 300C in AWD in the US and I find it to be a very quick, sure footed, Mercedes steering car with a LOT of road presence and character.
My other car is a BMW M3 2003 and I have owned and loved E38 740i saloons. Clarkson is too critical.
Posted by PhilipFL on March 23rd, 2005.
i own a 300c hemi on 22inch wheels. I think that it is a great car and have recieved many compliments about the car. I have owned 2 x m3’ 1997 2002 and amg’s cl500 and clk. I like the grunt and road presence. and yes people has said it looks like a gangster vehicle. Im very happy with it
Posted by andrew bell on April 25th, 2005.
Well, I have driven one over here. It is great fun and certainly turns heads. I live in town and own a Mini Cooper which I love. But this is a different (arguably wonderfully politically incorrect) beast. If I were a company car owner with kids or other to ferry around and a £30K budget, I’d get one.
Posted by Jonny Allen (not of Walford) on May 3rd, 2005.
just done 2500 miles in two weeks in one, better than any german motor
Posted by john on May 23rd, 2005.
the chrysler is a monster machine i have one and its a dream, 5.7 ltr engine ahhhhhh. so have your porsche if you want it but trust me your missin out!!
Posted by bower on June 3rd, 2005.
The Chrysler 300C is everything, plus a bag of chips on top! It’s a top-banana! What else on the road has the same visual impact? Gotta be black though.
You hairdressers with your fake tans and retro-mulletts can keep your Porsches….some of us aren’t sheep who run with the flock.
So what if Lord Jeremy (80’s Dresscode) Clarkson slagged it off. It’s not as if most of us are gonna drive it like we’re on acid?
Gonna order one now!
Posted by Deefer Dog on June 30th, 2005.
Great car, and lot better value than those German overrated equivalents. Sadly though you can buy a brand new 300C SRT-8 (all singing and dancing with whistles and bells)top of the range for $24,000.00 in the States, (which is about £13,500.00 sterling), so why do we have to pay over twice the price for one over here?
Thanks Mr Blair (et al) for giving meaning to the phrase “Rip Off Britain.” Get your hands off my wallet Mr Gordon Brown, and get your fingers off those pies Mr John Prescott.
Seriously though, it’s a fantastic car, let’s hope they decide to sell the Touring version over here too.
Keep on rocking.
Posted by Fishgills McGinty on June 30th, 2005.
Ok chaps, I must chime in here from the States. The 300 is different looking, isn’t that the point ! It is supposed to look American, just like Jags look British and Bimmers and Benz’ look German. What a set up though, strong American V8, Benz’ suspension (only steel rather than aluminum),massive interior, loads of goodies with finish very close to those terribly expensive German rigs.I don’t know about you, but for my money , to spend about $38000. US for a luxury sedan (saloon to you chaps)that moves from 0 to 60 mi/hr ( about 100km/hr) in under 6 seconds, is a bargain.
By the way ,I must clarify the SRT8 price here, it starts at $43000. US. Still a bargin when you consider it will run toe to toe with an E55 at almost 1/2 the price.
I If you snatch up one of these gems, be prepared for the hoards of folks gaulking at your car! Get out your sunglasses, they will think your a movie star.
Posted by Yank on July 31st, 2005.
£26k! all that metal for £26k.
The gangster looks are rockin, and I only had to sell one of the kid’s
Posted by Paul on August 24th, 2005.
Have been to my local Chrysler Dealer to enquire about these 300c’s, and apparently they are only being allocated 16 vehicles per year, so unless you order now, you’ll have to go on the waiting list. The 3.5 petrol V6 and the 3 litre diesel are starting off at 25k, not bad considering. The 5.7 Hemi is 32k. My local dealer has already taken an order for 7 (including mine) which will be in November 2005. I just hope it drives as good as it looks. Fingers crossed.
Posted by Up4Grabs on September 5th, 2005.
My local dealer has also told me the same thing about 300c stock levels. They are having some in during November, no more until February, and only an allocated amount. Seems these monster cars are gonna be kind of exclusive. A 3.5litre petrol with Sat Nav upgrade is 27.5K, and seeing that my current vehicle is hanging on to life by a thread, I took the plunge and ordered one…..!!!!!. Saw the 5.7 Hemi demo they had there (although left hand drive, the car rocks to hell and back). I liked the black paintowrk, but people have adivised me against black cos it looks too much like a funeral car, and people will be throwing wreaths at me and tipping their hats. Hmm? So I went for the safe option of silver. If anyone else gets one, it would be interesting to know what ya all think…..or if you’ve ordered one already?
Posted by 2goodeyes on September 6th, 2005.
Do I understand this correctly? There will only be 16 300Cs in the whole of the UK? That’s rubbish!
Posted by sil on September 6th, 2005.
No I think you misunderstood, each Chrysler Dealer is only being allocated 16 – 20 vehicles. My local dealer is having a couple through for November, then no more until February, and apparently there is a waiting list, as they’ve had serious enquires for 26, but only having 16 made available to them. No harm in trying another dealer though, maybe they haven’t sold all their allocated stock yet?
Posted by 2goodeyes on September 8th, 2005.
I used to own a 1971 Rover P5B Coupe V8, and that’s probably why the 300c appeals to me so much (quite similar stance I reckon). LOVE V-engines – have a Harley and a Chevy Van & want a 300c as soon as I can justify it!!! Can’t really fault it in any way.
Posted by DJ Astral on September 19th, 2005.
WHOO!!!!
Okay I stumbled across this and having drove a 300C (V6 Petrol UK SPEC with 20″ Alloys) and being the owner of an 03 Model Porsche Boxster S i would like to put the record straight here. How can you compare a Boxster with a 300c my family car is an E-Class and am looking at changing to an S-Class or another E-Class but then along comes the 300c and so I thought £25K for a new car 3yrs warranty lets give it a try! Its nothing like a Porsche Boxster and belive me (many will agree) once you have drove a Porsche Boxster S you will not find another car that is such fun, involving and quicker than the figures in the Manual. But its not a family car its a 2 seater. The 300c is Bold Brash and everyone thought it was a Bentley as I heard people saying look at that Bentley and then to there disapointment they see Chrysler on the rear, which did make you feel good for 3 seconds and then “oh its a chrysler” made you feel like a prentender, not that you was trying to be, I think this would go away when more hit the streets. Looks wise everyone has different tastes, I like the side and front, back looks like a vectra! Interior is good spacey, door panels certainley lower parts are like Ice cream tubs and cheap and nasty, but you can forgive them as other features and all the extras that come in this £25k on the road car (and I would say the diesel is the best bet as uses the same engine as merc, the petrol v6 is a mitubushi engine with e-class gearbox 5speed auto) It feels solid and it is solid, it weighs nearly 2 ton, so its a big safe motor, it drives very nice infact is more involving than my e-class but not as involving as a 5 Series BMW. It does dance around on the rear when confronted with an array of holes or lumps in the road, but did not appear to wallow. The driving position is very high and you do feel safe, although the seats did not seem to hug you they where like big armchairs. All in all for £25k and a guaranteed future value of £8.5k after 4yrs (I have been and done the maths at the dealers) its the residual value that will pos, who knows? let it down, but in Deisel format, and if you opt for a 3yrs balloon you know your going to get a gauranteed price at the end maybe more……. so with a budget of 28k (as I want to update my boxster s to a 997 model) I have a choice of BRAND NEW 300c 3yr warranty or used E or S class (1 yrs warranty with say 10-30k on clock) and value for money the 300C does look to be a good bet (except 6k service intervals on all variants) Hope this gives you a better insight and my views on the 300c test drive. Bye :-)
Posted by The Gaffer on December 13th, 2005.
Reading through this thread, there are a lot of opinions of which only a marginal few have any right to comment. Those of you haven’t driven the car…shut up! Those of you that are evaluating the 6 cylinder…shut up! Those of you that haven’t lived in the category of owning “multiple kinds of luxury autos”…shut up. That is not meant to be disparaging. It is simply speaking to the fact that unless you are dealing with a complete set of data, your input is totally subjective, and therefore, rather useless.
If, on the other hand, you have bought cars ranging from $18,000 to $85,000, because what you bought was, in your opinion, great in it’s “power profile”…power, handling, dependability, etc…and have bought multiples, you proably qualify as a valid contributor of opinion.
So, here’s the lowdown…
Have owned…M3, M5, 535, Range Rover, BMW 320i with $20k invested with Calloway Turbo…pumping out over 300hp…ate Porsche Turbos for lunch…Audi S6 (just turned in)
Chrysler has accomplished a strategic strike on the performance/luxury category of the automotive market. The 5.7 AWD rules! Performance, creature comforts, sound, electronics,…it has done it all right. It satisfies my wife’s desire for a seemingly unevenful 120 mile ride to the country home, while allowing me to occassionally “play” with a fellow enthusiast without waking her up!
This car EATS highway. It’s grand in the twisty’s, and has a quality feel about it that completely contradicts its sticker price.
I don’t work for Chrysler, and if next year, Mercedes, or Cooper, or VW comes out with a better price/performance/comfort value proposition, I will be equally as passionate.
Lose your individual agendas and simply post facts, based on personal experience, as opposed to hypotheses, opinions, or the desire to excercise ego.
Posted by Larry Nipon on December 15th, 2005.
In response to LARRY NIPON, I must agree…….most of the comments are just what people have seen and read, and its like anything in life, if you like the look, what its does and the price tag and its what you want then buy it!
Take Bose for example, not great hifi, but everyone (well in the uk) wants its basically because they are lead to belive its great! its just well marketed. The cars of today like this chrysler are worth a look as your getting german engineering creeping in on a low price tag. Someone above commented about German cars, lets all be honest here, They make dam fine cars be it a VW or a Merc, I just want to finish of by saying that I have now ordered a 300C in Black with 20″ Alloys and ended up going for the 5.7 HEMI it was this or a second hand E-Class and so with 3yrs warranty and nice safe car that shifts, it all made sense. Just one note to Larry this is an international site and ofcourse the UK spec cars that are being pushed by dealers are the 3.5 v6 and 3.0 diesel, as Brits as cost of fuel we was forced to go Diesel, saying that most of the modern Diesels are far better allround than petrol, and even AMG have give one a going over!! WILL THE REAL SLIM SHADY PLEASE “SHUT UP”!
Posted by The Gaffer on December 22nd, 2005.
I took delivery of a right hand drive 3.5 petrol on the 30th November 2005, and I gotta say, this car gets you noiced. Been stopped by police 3 times already, just cos they wanted a look at the car….!!! A couple of people have asked me if it’s a Bentley, but I have no problem in putting them right and telling them it’s a Chrysler. Value for money, you can’t really go wrong. I’ve owned BM’s and Mercs and though they’re good cars in general, the prices are up in the clouds, and the build quality on the recent Merc’s is shocking even if I do say so myself. So, if you want to get admiring glances and be a bit different, then why not take the plunge and buy a 300c. Availability is quite low, so they’ll always be kind of exclusive. I’m glad they’re bringing the touring version to the UK, I’m waiting in anticipation to see one in the flesh. Have a good one!
Posted by 2goodeyes on January 12th, 2006.
…to all the chaps who listed the marvellous comments above…just brilliant.
I too have driven the Hemi many times over in the States and fell in love with it….the 5.7 just changed my world…so much so that I am awaiting delivery of my SRT8 6.1L right hand version here in the UK in March !! Incredibly excited about owning an even more powerful 2 ton gangster car!!
Like many of you I have owned big gas guzzlers Bentleys, Jags, BMWs and to me this is the best car I have ever driven. WHY? Because not only does it feel like you are driving a Bentley….and I’m proud to say it’s not, it’s a Chrysler….but you are driving a £100,000 motor car for £30,000 with EVERYTHING AS STANDARD…and I mean EVERY luxury item.
It’s like the difference between stepping up from a delicious champagne like veuve-cliquot to say an over priced cristal….you can’t tell the difference…and anyone who tells you they can taste the £80 difference is talking bollocks!
And it’s the same with this motor car. Yes it has a few plastic finishes inside…so f+++++ what!? They look great and they don’t squeak or rattle one little bit. It’s the car ‘driving’ you should be worried about.Overall the car is solid and stunning and just a dream to drive. So to all those critics of this car and that hermaphrodite Clarkson don’t tell me it’s worth spending twice or three times the money to buy the German equivalent .You cannot tell the difference. What don’t tell me you notice your non plastic finishes whilst driving at 70mph…..please how do your families put up with your arrogance….well according to OK magazine Mr. Clarkson your wife does! see… how do you like to be criticised unfairly? And the way you test drive cars for television…do you really think we would notice your criticisms driving normally and not on acid as somebody above rightly pointed out!!
AND SO to all of you haven’t driven this supreme motor car…go test drive one. The Chrysler dealers are friendly and amazed too about their product. And no I don’t work for Chrysler either. See for yourself, be amazed and DON’T listen to people who haven’t driven one.
Oh and p.s. the boss of my local showroom left PORSCHE to come to Chrysler on the basis of the 300C alone !!! And before that he was with BMW…….NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL A PERSON WHO KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE TALKING ABOUT.
I think you say Q.E.D. or quite simply it shoves it up the arrogant people who can’t face the fact that it’s a Chrysler.
Oh and p.p.s. I bought my wife a Chrysler Crossfire the day we ordered the SRT8………what a fabulous sports car and EVERYTHING STANDARD for £24,000. We love it. We love Chrysler.
Posted by Bulldog on January 22nd, 2006.
What options are avaliable on the 300c that are not on the Chrysler website?
I have heard of the Benlry grille and also better wheels.
What else is there?
Posted by Black 17 on January 23rd, 2006.
In response to the question about the options available you need to contact a dealer nr you and ask for the BRABUS “STARTEC” Accessories Brochure.
The wheels and well to be honest all of it is overpriced and as for the grille its only heavly chromed plastic, and cost if I recall about £270 and I am sure who know about the startec stuff agree the 20″ wheels at 3K are not worth it, I noted since been to another dealer the 20″ startec wheels on the demo seem to get mashed up quick I was only the 3rd person to drive the first demo (see my posting above) and someone had badly kerbed them, and this car although big and good to drive, when you sit in it, it feels even bigger and quite easy to missjudge when you first get so could end in tears, I would purchase the wheel from another place (make sure you get the correct ETA) and tyres as a package, but the standard wheels on any car are always the best as that is what it was designed to run on, my current e-class *(that is going cus I am getting a 300c - on order) has 18″ with low profile and when I changed them I was not happy, it drove better on standard merc alloys, and fuel consumption went up also. Anyhow the Startec Brochure is what you need, they body kit looks good, but dont have the lights underneath, personally they just look pants, and something out of your kitchen. I would search the web and especially american websites as there is many parts for these now, and you dealer would be happy to fit, as they can fit the sat nav after if you want to get into one for 25k and add it after when you have saved some penny £1,800 for sat nav as you have to add the 6 pack cd so it bumps it up to that figure. As for the above guy who stated a guy left Porsche to go to Chrysler dont mean nothing, two different animals, but I will agree with most on this board why buy a merc or BMW when you drive this your forgive the cheapo plastic parts, it like sitting in a big 4×4 but low on the ground and you feel like you could steem roll through any road block, feels totally safe, and at 2 ton, and seeing the way the shell (although the floorplan and chassis is old E-Class) the bonnet and boot have like 2 skins, so its built like a brick shit house, I personally would not like to have a head on with one, even in say a mondeo size car, I think it would drive through it!
Anyone wanting to see more 300c watch the film THE ISLAND set 2050 and the director chose the 300c for the cars (although I see a Range Rover in the trafic jam - must of been a person driving a classic car!!) so they looked futuristic, and so basically that sums it up….. its the shape of things to come.
Posted by The Gaffer on January 24th, 2006.
I’ve got the fully loaded 5.7 Hemi and believe you me this vehicle is out of this world. I’ve saved myself £85,000 by not buying a Bentley which can do everything that a Bentley can do if not more. Please also note that Chrysler intend to only manufacture 2000 for the whole of the UK so if you think about it logically, the price of the vehicle will increase.
Posted by Deego on January 30th, 2006.
In response to Deego
No chance on hell the price will increase, sorry but no big car of like this will hold its value of more than 48% and certainley will not increase. I know where there are 2 300C sitting waiting to be purchased (physically seen them) that is without the ones for sale on the net I have seen, and Chrysler only sent over 200 from the Austrian plant where they are being made, and if they are still sitting on forecourts, I would have reservations of if anyone will actually want a second hand one, but then again, yes I expect a 3yr diesel (no lets be honest this one will hold its money the best) to be a great buy in three years time, my guess is a 36K miles 3yrs old will be had for £12995 at max ! so thats about where the 48% mark comes in. The Hemi is the big fast one and prob the best of the bunch for those who own a petrol station, but after seeing a missprinted spec on it I actually looked at the correct spec and 5.7 ltrs taking 6.8 sec to 60mph and the diesel in 7.3 and does over twice the amount of miles on fuel, so you know what model the brits will go for. I must know confess I have actually canceled my order for this car, (lucky I was able to pass to another gentleman and he gave me my 1K deposit) just so he could climb up the waiting list, the reason I canceled the order is I spent a lot longer looking around the car, and spent 4.5hrs driving another test drive model, and it was then I started to see why the are £25K on the road… You can see loads of form lines in the body if you look down the side of it, not impressive, even a pug 206 has better pressed pannels.. the drive became as boring as my merc and the visabilty did start to become annoying through towns. The rear danced around more than I remembered, and I supose the reason I noticed more this time is that I drove to the dealers in my Merc thats a similar car rather than the Porsche, where you know and expect any four door car to be a complete different kettle of fish, so I advise anyone who goes to test drive one to go twice and have a good look around it, dont let these words put you off I think its still a great car, but must rule out that people above have mentioned its better than the Germans overpriced cars, well they are mistaken, Its better than the american soap in a dish handling cars we know, but I think its not quite up there yet… BUT HEY! HANG ON…. this car is to fill the gap of the old Granada Scorpio and Vauxhall Carlton\Senator guys…. Yes its makes sense now, what a great car then, go test drive one, dont take the wife as I have not yet met a women who likes the look of it.
Its been refered to as (from women who seen me in the test drive ones)
BRICK ON WHEELS
TANK
GANSTER MOBILE
DRUG DEALER CAR
SQUARE BOX
But I like it…… (as for the Bentley remark, well thats just 80% a volkswagen ??????? can’t remember the name of it, but its basically the same car, smaller price tag)
Anyhow, all those who read this and fancy a 300C go try yourself, as no matter what people say….. your the one thats got to live with it.
BYE!
Posted by The Gaffer on February 3rd, 2006.
Just bought a new 2006 300C SRT8 about a week ago. I spent about a week each with a C55 (2005) and E55 (’04). I have to say, the C55 is the most fun to drive, and has great high-speed stability. It’s rock solid. But a tiny rock. Forget about carrying anything more than one other person comfortably. It’s great for jetting around to and from work. But here in the USA, we’re left with using our cars to get everywhere. Things like going out with friends on the weekend require you have a car that can hold 4 people and a trunk big enough to carry a range of items. Here in Texas, everything is bigger - everything. The C55 just isn’t a practical car if you have budget for one car only.
The E55 is simply a monster. It’s a speed machine. A single-purpose piece of equipment. I found it to feel it’s size, and although it’s bigger and faster than the C55, it feels it. Sometimes you feel like the car is just TOO much machine.
After driving the 300C SRT8 for a few days, and considering the considerable price difference and the fact that I had room in my garage for only one car, it became clear that among the 4-door, high-performance market segment, this was the obvious and practical choice.
I have to admit the interior of the 300 isn’t near as refined as the MB cars, to be sure. It’s obviously cheaper in many ways. But at the same time, everything works very well and the car is truly feature-rich. There’s just not much you’ll miss. If you’d like to pay an extra $20,000 to $40,000 US for a C of E55, they’re certainly great cars. But everyone must admit there’s a balance of cost that is at different levels for each person. In the end, all you gotta do is stomp on the gas and you forget all about the various compromises that have been made. Here in the big, vast expansive roads of Texas, where the concrete is long, flat, and plentiful, this car is a blast to drive. Certainly everyone on this board has opinions one way or another, but with Chrysler hiring Toyota’s formal quality manager, and the merger with MB, they’ve come a long way and are making some truly great products that are within reach of a much wider audience. Such caliber cars made by BMW, Audi, or MB were always out of the price range of many. The SRT8 challenges assumptions - about style, cost, performance, and many other areas. It’s been my experience that when this happens, some will like it, and some won’t - but all will be better in the end because we’ll talk and debate the various merits and be forced to think about what’s truly important.
So quit arguing and recognize this beast for what it is - it’s a big, powerful engine, bold/ganster/tank/boxy styling, big wheels, and many other things.
After living with mine for a week, I’ve come to appreciate the distinctive looks, even though, as one reader noted - my wife isn’t nearly as fond of it. I just like the fact that it stirs emotions in people.
Posted by -=E=- on February 10th, 2006.
A couple of other comments about the SRT8 variant compared to the standard 300:
The SRT8 seats are fantastic - supportive, comfortable, and well bolstered. And heated. The regular 300’s seats leave a bit to be desired…
The upgrade stereo is a nice touch - sounds nearly as good as the Bose in the MB S500.
The tighter suspension is wonderful - not sloppy at all like the base 300C. The Goodyear F1 Supercar tires make this 2-ton brick feel more like the C55 (I just wish the steering in the 300 had better feedback).
The brakes, while they can stop a Peterbuilt and haul the SRT8 from 60-0 almost as fast as any supercar, spin off lots of dust from the linings, which is deposited immediately on the polished aluminium wheels, which are impossible to keep clean as a result. No big deal, but worth pointing out.
No spare tire on the SRT8 - instead you get a fix-a-flat kit and one of those little electric compressors that plug into the cigarette lighter outlet. I don’t intend to ever use it - just keep your roadside assistance contract up to date is my recommendation. A 4-wheel tire pressure monitoring system is handy though for keeping the tires you do have in top shape. Last - because the front and back tires are different widths, you can’t rotate them in the normal manner (which is pretty common for a sports car, but maybe not a 4-door, and some may not have thought about that…)
Last - it’s a thirsty car and gets about the gas mileage you’d expect from 425 hp. Premium fuel only, please. And full synthetic oil is recommended. (hey - you can monitor the oil temperature and pressure via the dashboard display, just in case you’re interested how that fully synthetic oil is doing).
Posted by -=E=- on February 10th, 2006.
Having driven a 300c Diesel I can state conclusively that it is a dream drive. It accelerates like a plane, it’s as quiet as any Petrol car with the same grunt and it’s cavernous enough for my 6′ 4″ frame.
On looks, I certainly feel it’s imposing, but each to his own. Let’s remember though, when you’re driving you don’t see the outside of the car, and inside it is luxurious. I saw shedloads in the States last year and they look different and imposing there too. Mind you, our lucky cousins in the U.S. pay considerably less than we do. $30k I believe which is about what you’d pay for a nasty Ford here. So, get real people. This is basically an E-Class with Chrysler styling for about 20% less. No brainer.
Posted by Tony on February 20th, 2006.
just took delivery of my 300c diesel, very pleased, head turner, my wife very comfortable with it, good mpg if not driven like certain reviewers.
Posted by John L on March 24th, 2006.
Hi, i would just like to say realy what has been said by other reviewers, it is a great, great car for a great great price. Like others , I have owned Mercs Beamers and jags etc but this car is totally different !
Posted by Jack H on April 9th, 2006.
Our local Jaguar dealer invited the local great and the good to the roll out of the new Jag XK. Great looking car. One problem - up rolls another car that parks alongside. People move en mass to it. “What the hell is it”? people murmur. ……well the Jag now just looks utterly weedy and pointless. This thing just kicked a whole beach in its face…
I order my 300C CRD the next day. Arrived a week ago. Wow. Haven’t been this moved by a car since….ever. Workmanship superb. No ripples in the doors, perfect fit of interior, beautiful paint.
Buy one
Posted by Gerard B on April 10th, 2006.
This is the first time i have ever commented online about anything! Been in the car business for 28 years and have owned or driven most things. I am a great believer in appreciating a car for what part of the market it is intended, I would not want a Zafira or a Range Rover or a 3 series BMW, many people do and I hope they like and enjoy them. I like to have a large automatic with cruise control good sound system and if poss reasonable on fuel, I also like to have a fast rear wheel drive sports car. The former is now in my garage a new 300C diesel, replacing a used 5 series V8 auto, I am absolutely made up it is perfect for the purpose intended and creates quite a stir. This leaves me to drive the sporty car at weekends and take part in track days, the 300C will never be taken through its paces on a track i did not buy it for that, though I will be taking my two sons and a friend off to Le-Mans this June in superb comfort. If you like a car buy it and thank yourselves lucky that we live in a world where you choose what you want and enjoy it!
Posted by Steve H. on April 16th, 2006.
Have been driving one of the diesels in the UK since late February 06. My wife likes the looks and so does 15yr old daughter which is no mean feat. Remember Clarkson on Top Gear tested a LHD V8 on Pendine sands, very likely brought over from US. This would have had much softer US suspension. Also some of base models in US seem to have tiny brake discs.
This car is a lot faster than my old Merc E 3.2 diesel was, and certainly does not roll at all on corners. Ride not quite as good at low speed. If anything I reckon they were so paranoid about being laughed at for launching a US design that rolled, they made the suspension too firm for the UK. Lending a US one to Top Gear may have been a mistake. You just watch them deliberately avoid putting the diesel head to head with cars of same price from BMW or Merecedes, it will embarrass anything else at this price tag.
For the price nothing at all compares to it. This is the real point. Cheaper than even the most poverty-spec E class. You can actually buy it without upgrading anything and you will still have all the toys. It cuts a dash wherever you go and the response from everyone has always been positive. I get thumbs up from total strangers. Took it to a carwash the other day and the bloke said it was the best looking car he had ever seen (in black).
Fittings are plastic but nothing rattles. Good stereo. Get the centre armrest recovered in leather (kit from US), this is a common modification. The real luxury is the space…tons of it. In an era when all 4 door cars are efficient but boring this one really breaks the mould. No kid ever looked at a standard Audi A6, A8 or 5 series and said “wow, I want one of those when I grow up”
If you are thinking of buying one check out european/diesel section of 300Cforums.com.
John
Posted by John on April 17th, 2006.
Ordered a 300c crd back in November 05 with a promised delivery of 13 April. Chysler UK and Garage now say they do not know when delivery will happen!
Disappointed
Posted by Martin on May 10th, 2006.
How can anyone slag off this BEAUTIFUL BEAST of a car. I’ve just spent two weeks driving the 5.7 litre around california on all terrains. This car is a monster of a head turner. Only thing i will say is, get it in black. It drives well, handles well, brakes well and if it had horns and a curly tail it couldn’t be more wicked.
Whilst going through Death Valley got stuck in the middle of the Gumball Rally. I parked the Chrysler next to a Bentley which was racing and I tell you what…I may have never driven a Bentley but I know which one looks better…the Mighty 300C
Posted by Vinny B on May 18th, 2006.
I am now on my fifth Mercedes, in between I have had a Bentley Mulsanne, a Bentley Turbo LWB, and a Rolls Royce Silver Spirit, all of them by comparison to the 300C very very expensive. My current transport is the fifth Mercedes an S600 V12 1998 with 130,000 miles on the clock with a cost price of £117,489. The present value in the trade is £3200.It is my intension to buy a 300C for £27,750 and I just cannot believe the value for money. Please remember one can only do 70 mph legally and all the cars above with the exception of the S600 are a bit like bath tubs on winding roads so you will understand my enthusiasm, after all I can have one in each colour and still have some change.All this with the reliability of the Mercedes Engine, just as well the 300C does’nt have a three pointed star on the radiator and a waiting list, the price would be much higher and if you are like me the only way I would get one would be to pay a premium.
Posted by John Bryant on June 23rd, 2006.
I am of the opinion that having owned and run all of the cars in my previous comment putting fairly high mileage on each of them 100K plus I think I am a better judge of a vehicles potential than the team at Top Gear, one of them behaves like an overgrown schoolboy, another like a terrier with an attitude problem and one a gentleman who runs a Bentley, allowing himself to be brow beaten.
So I went to my local dealer LHT Garages and purchased a 300C Touring today. It looks full of promise and I look forward to ownership in my twilight years happy that it has’nt cost the earth.
I will comment after 10,000 miles unlike Top Gear who seem to make comments that can really damage engineering achievement without one jot of consideration to the engineering workforce that created the car in the first place.
Be like me, if Top Gear recommend a car think very carefully !!!!!
Posted by John Bryant on June 24th, 2006.
Have been looking for a nice roomy car that my wife will enjoy being chauffeured in. She has already rejected various Audis, BMWs, Mercs and sundry other makes on the grounds of difficult access, poor seating, tyre noise, etc, etc. With some trepidation, we took a test drive in the 300C CRD and the result was a resounding “thumbs up”. One comment my wife made was that she liked the way I drove the car “slowly”; I didn’t really, but thats how it seemed to her!
If anyone can point me towards an alternative “limo” style car (brand new) and for similar money to the 300C I would be interested to compare. I didn’t see the Top Gear programme; what was their alternative(s)?
Posted by Harry on August 2nd, 2006.
Hi all. I have just driven the 300c for two weeks in the USA. You get used to the size quickly, however the roads in the USA are wider. I had no trouble with car parks or hotel parks. It does waft along very well and you could convince yourself that you were driving a Roller or Bentley but for two things. The interior build quality on the US model I hired was pants, much worse than my old Mondeo or Vectra. The road holding was very poor, when pushed only slightly to accerate on to an interstate using the slip road which was a banked half circle, the back end broke away on a damp surface. When making a U turn across a carriageway on a wet road, it ran on in a striaght line with the tyres not even trying to make a steering input. The Auto box changes were notchy and there was noticeable transmittion thump and knock. I averaged about 25 miles to the US gallon ( 3.8L) which is a pint smaller. The car has a 20 US gallon tank. When kicked down the big engine makes a lot of noise before speed picks up. Lastly I felt as if my current 1.9 A4 TDI would thrash it up to the 80 mph mark. I do hope that these faults are sorted on the models they bring into the UK.
Posted by Aardvark on August 10th, 2006.
Don’t know if the last fella drove the base 300 or what (with the V6 engine @250hp) but I’ve owned my 300C for 2 months here in Canada and the thing is a monster. Power is instant, engine noise is wonderful, and I waste anything on the road in it. Handling is taut and responsive and many an A4 TDI have been left in my dust. All the E Class underpinnings for half the price and with an engine to die for make this car an exceptional value on the road. And although there are many around over hear these days, the heads still turn whenever this imposing beast rolls by. It may be beat in the corner by some twitchy little 3 Series coupe, but in a straight line, or cruising downtown this beast can’t be touched.
Posted by Sinky on August 30th, 2006.