Stellantis Bids Farewell to Chysler 300C, to End Production this December
By Dabbie Davis
Dec 14, 2023 03:43 AM EST
The Stellantis manufactured Chrysler 300C has officially reached the end of the line, marking the end of an era for this iconic model. The final 300C rolled off the assembly line on December 8, 2023, with the entire 300 series set to cease production by December 31 of the same year.
Chrysler 300C, End of Line
This momentous occasion was commemorated by the dedicated employees at the Brampton factory in Ontario, Canada, who gathered around the last 300C and captured a memorable photograph. This particular 300C sported a stunning Velvet Red paint finish and was equipped with the impressive 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine, boasting a formidable 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque.
Autoevolution provided details about this news. Its performance credentials were equally remarkable, achieving a 0 to 60 mph acceleration in just 4.3 seconds and completing the quarter-mile run in 12.4 seconds.
A strong engine was just one of the 300C's many great features. It also had an active dampening suspension, a limited-slip differential, and bright red Brembo four-piston brake calipers that really stood out. The car also had round tailpipes as part of its active exhaust system. These made a unique, throaty sound.
Moreover, it was different from the rest of the family because it had black chrome details that went well with the soft Lanua leather upholstery and front sports seats.
Yahoo News shared The Drive's report. According to its website, December 31, 2023, marks the official conclusion of the current-generation 300, concluding a nearly decade-long run for this iconic model.
First introduced in 2014, the 300 has certainly aged gracefully with its timeless, boxy design. While it may show its years compared to some of its newer competitors like the Cadillac CT5 and Lexus ES, the 300 retained a unique charm and swagger that endeared it to its loyal fanbase.
In 2022, Chrysler paid tribute to the 1950s Hemi V8-powered 300C by releasing a special edition, the 300C, with a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine delivering 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. This Velvet Red model featured black Laguna leather upholstery, Brembo brakes, a limited-slip rear differential, and an adaptive suspension.
Only 2,200 units were produced, quickly selling out. With the 300's discontinuation, Chrysler will rely solely on the Pacifica minivan, hinting at a likely electric successor for the 300 as the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, leaving their lineup significantly diminished.
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Chrysler's Story
According to its MotorTrend, The Chrysler brand is currently under the umbrella of FCA US, a company owned by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. FCA operates from two headquarters, with the Fiat division based in Turin, Italy, and the former Chrysler Corp. operations headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
Established in 1925 by Walter Chrysler, Chrysler remains a prominent member of the Big Three or Detroit Three, alongside General Motors and Ford. Throughout its history, Chrysler has faced financial challenges on multiple occasions. In the late 1970s, it was on the brink of bankruptcy but was ultimately rescued by government loan guarantees totaling $1.5 billion.
These guarantees provided a lifeline until the unexpected savior, the minivan, which had been secretly in development, was unveiled. According to Chron., in 1957, the Chrysler 300C made its debut, representing a significant milestone for the 300 series. It was equipped with a 392-cubic-inch HEMI engine that produced 375 horsepower, and this engine came as standard equipment.
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