A New Version of an Old Tradition: The 2011 Chrysler 300 Preview

With the upcoming 2011 Chrysler 300 model getting a new 'evolutionary' styling, take a look at where it all began.  The history of the Chrysler 300 begins in 1953 when Robert  MacGregor Rodger, the chief engineer of the Chrysler Division, was convinced that a standard 331-cubic-inch (5.4-liter) Hemi running one of Cunningham's cams with solid lifters, dual four-barrel carbs and an 8.5-to-1 compression ratio could produce 300 reliable and civilized horsepower. Yet the problem was Chrysler didn't really have a production car that seemed an appropriate showcase for such performance.  So Rodger proposed that Chrysler build a special car, a two-door hardtop, for the Hemi.

There wasn't any budget for new sheet metal, so he bolted the top-of-the-line Imperial's nose onto a New Yorker hardtop two-door body shell with Windsor model rear quarter panels to produce the 1955 300.  The 300 has gone in and out of production several times.  But today, it's the herald of a new rear-drive future for Chrysler and the most spectacular model yet for an all-new Hemi V8.

First Generation 300 

The first generation Chrysler 300 was athletic-looking, but it didn't have a letter at the end of its name. With 300 horsepower aboard, it was among the quickest cars of its time, getting to 60 mph in just 9.8 seconds, it was also very luxurious and handsome. The most prominent display of the first 300's attributes didn't come in any showroom, but on racetracks during the 1955 NASCAR Grand National season.  For a time, the big rear wheel drive sedans were some of the hottest cars on the market.  

Tenth Generation: 300c

The tenth generation of the Chrysler 300c began in 2005.   This new generation of 300 shares practically nothing with the outgoing 300M. The new unibody structure mounts a rear-drive drivetrain and incorporates suspension components originally developed for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The styling is aggressively American with more than a taste of gangster influence.  The tenth generation 300C model is powered by the 5.7-liter "Hemi" V8 engine making 340 hp.

2011 Chrysler 300c

Although the 2011 may not be a total redesign, it will certainly be freshened up and Chrysler has promised a huge upgrade in overall quality.   While Chrysler 300s of the past were not particularly fuel efficient, Chrysler intends to improve on that with the redesigned 2011 model.  Thanks to the new Phoenix V6 engine family, the new versions are expected to be "CAFE-positive" implying that the cars will exceed the new standards and pull up Chrysler's fleet average. Another factor expected to help the mileage of the new sedans will be improved  aerodynamics. The design department focused on this and drag reductions should significantly reshape the 300 for 2011.  The 2011 300 will likely be offered in a variety of trim levels such as the LX, Touring and Limited for for rear-wheel-drive models, and Touring and Limited for the all-wheel-drive 300. Chrysler 300 competitors for the 2011 model year will remain the same as in the past; these include the Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Impala.  The all-wheel-drive models will feature an active transfer case and front-axle disconnect, which is meant to save fuel. The interior includes added chrome accents and upgraded features for the UConnect entertainment system.

The Chrysler 300 has a long and storied history.  It could be said that it is working its way to becoming a 'classic' and is a big part of Chrysler nameplate.  Just how green will the new model be? Check out an article by autobloggreen to see. The 300 certainly has an optimistic future, with promised improvements for 2011, a lengthy list of safety features and optional all-wheel drive, in addition to its stunning performance and styling, the 300 should be around for a long time. For a detailed look at the Chrysler 300's new interior, read a preview by Motorauthority.com.