2005 Chrysler 300 - Rear Wheel Power Returns

The all-new 2005 Chrysler 300's striking new proportions combine classic American design and power with proven DaimlerChrysler technology. Marking the brand's return to a rear-drive, V-8 powered automobile for the first time in more than a decade, the Chrysler 300C pays homage in a very contemporary way, to the first letter-series Chrysler 300s, which combined performance and prestige like no other vehicle of its time. The Chrysler 300 was introduced in 1955 with an engine having hemispherical combustion chambers, called the Hemi; it also had two four-barrel carburetors, and it achieved early fame as the most powerful engine built by Detroit, winning the NASCAR championship in its first year and setting top speed records on the beach at Daytona. There have been some successful Chrysler 300s along the way, but nothing to match the impact of the '55. The all-new 2005 Chrysler 300 was the first big rear-wheel-drive sedan to come out of Chrysler in many years. It replaces the front-wheel-drive LH line, which Chrysler has used for years. Back then, there were engineering cases for front-wheel drive, including reduced manufacturing costs and more compact packaging. But new technology made rear-wheel drive preferable again.

Chrysler 300 Exterior for 2005

 Some may feel the 300 is retro, but besides the giant grille, the 300 is all modern. The Chrysler 300's styling is distinctive, and its interior is roomy, efficient and stylish. The instrument panel and switchgear are easy to read and operate. The 300 looks dramatic in profile. Rear-wheel-drive architecture allowed this whole new shape. The wheelbase is very long but the overhangs are short, offering a visual sense of power. The roof rakes thickly down to a short deck, and the sides are like large slabs. The long hood glides forward and drops off a cliff whose face is the massive grille, so strong it dictates the car's lines.

Driving the Chrysler 300

 Traction control, electronic stability programs, anti-lock brakes, and electronic brake distribution all improve the driver's ability to control the car. The 2005 300 has a huge advantage over previous front wheel drive models:  Rear-wheel drive is much better for managing horsepower. ABS keeps the vehicle straight, while retaining steering capability when braking on slippery surfaces by preventing wheel lock-up. All-speed Traction Control enhances mobility and prevents wheel slip when accelerating on slippery surfaces. It also provides a measure of directional stability control-an advancement beyond prior traction control systems. ESP enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability in turns, including uneven surface conditions and patchy snow, ice or gravel. If there's a discernible difference between what the driver indicates through the steering and the vehicle's path, ESP applies selective braking and throttle control to put the car back onto the driver's intended path. The system is calibrated for better control of the vehicle under a variety of conditions and operates in a manner that is not intrusive under normal driving. The 300C, which comes with a 340-horsepower Hemi V8, would not work with front wheel drive. Chrysler engineers have gotten the rack-and-pinion steering right; it's just the right amount of weighty, and provides a secure feeling. The power assist is constant-rate and not speed-sensitive; it's been a while since we felt a constant-rate system, and we like its accuracy. It felt heavy but not big, and is responsive and confident. The ride in the 300C is very smooth and solid without any weakness that we could find in a half day of hard driving, and we wouldn't change a thing. With brakes big enough for towing, the 300C is rated to tow up to 3800 pounds. The cornering is good enough that higher-performance tires should be made available.

Inside the 2005 Chrysler 300

 Chrysler 300's interior continues this noble, proud theme of the exterior, with a more upright windshield and seating position for a spacious feel. The seating position has been raised two-and-a-half inches compared to the Chrysler 300M to enhance the command-of-the-road feel and aid in easy ingress and egress. Distinctive materials and textures add a handcrafted touch and upscale feeling to the interior. Inside, the seats are on the firm side but comfortable. Because the windshield rake is relatively modest, visibility forward is enhanced over that very long hood. Visibility out the rear is also excellent, without much intrusion from the roofline. The cabin is roomy, thanks largely to the efficient shape of the exterior. The 60/40 split rear folding seat, with a folding center armrest and integrated cupholders, offers a relaxing 40 inches of legroom, although because it's rear-wheel drive the driveshaft tunnel on the floor down the center of the car has returned. The door openings are extra large, making climbing in and out noticeably easier and more pleasant. The instrument panel and switchgear are easy to read and operate. The interior of the Chrysler 300 is marked by spacious silence. holders and deep cup holders.

Powering the Chrysler 300

The 2.7-liter, DOHC V-6 engine provides the Chrysler 300 with an outstanding combination of performance, fuel economy, quietness and durability. The engine produces more low-speed torque at launch and during mid-range operation for strong performance in everyday driving. The 2.7-liter engine has been mated to a revised version of a proven Chrysler Group four-speed automatic transmission. The Chrysler 300 Touring and 300 Limited models feature a 3.5-liter, SOHC V-6 engine with high-output performance, matched with the revised 42RLE four-speed automatic transmission on RWD applications. This engine provides the perfect blend of performance and economy. For the ultimate in performance, the Chrysler 300C is equipped with a standard 5.7-liter, HEMI V-8 engine. This engine offers more power and torque than any Chrysler passenger car engine since the legendary 426 HEMI of the '60s and '70s. Today's engine produces 340 horsepower. The 5.7-liter HEMI is mated with the proven DaimlerChrysler five-speed automatic transmission, offered for the first time ever in a Chrysler Group passenger car. The five-speed automatic transmission features the AutoStick driver-selectable range control, which offers a fully automatic or manual shifting selection.

Summary

The Chrysler 300 is the first high-volume vehicle completely designed and engineered under the Chrysler Development System. The comprehensive, coordinated, product creation process improves quality and speed-to-market, while reducing costs and encouraging innovation in new products. For a closer look, read Motor Trend's Chrysler 300 First Test. CDS emphasizes systems engineering and up-front planning and design to avoid time-consuming and costly changes during the later phases of the product development cycle. With CDS, all product and process planning is completed and fully integrated before production tooling begins. The 2005 300 is a perfect vehicle for professionals looking for a bold and handsome model, or a small family I need of a powerful and stylish sedan.