I was lucky. Not many people would consider themselves "lucky" when tasked with cleaning cars all day for a measly $5.50 an hour at a Chrysler/Jeep dealership. But money, or lack there of, was only a minor detail. I got to experience the arrival of the all new Chrysler 300. I was one of the first to witness the rear-wheel drive powerhouse. The Bentley look-alike. The sales hit. It wasn't long though after taking a spin in a "C" that I realized a very sad truth about the emergence of the new car; the 300M was dead.
The "M" was growing old, losing the accolades of "best car" that it nabbed in its early release. Competition was growing and Chrysler was being pushed to develop another large segment leader. But with the death of the "M", I have to wonder if we will we ever have a Chrysler like this again.
At well under 300hp even in its highest "Special M" trim, the 300M was not exactly a stoplight hero. Don't be fooled though as the 24 valve 3.5 liter V6 had plenty of gusto to move the car about. The smooth engagement of the transmission with the high revving six allowed you to feel involved and satisfied with its progress down the road. The "M" came standard with sleek sheet metal, a low stance, and road-gripping feel. An American luxury car with a perfect blend of sport and comfort.
While working a late night at the dealership a bored salesman came to the back of the shop and asked me if I wanted to go for a ride in the very first 300C we received in. After we wrapped up a white knuckled, red-line-filled drive we parked the car. And without speaking a word, we still knew which Chrysler we would call "special".
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