2005 Used Chrysler 300M Buying Guide
The 2005 Chrysler 300M has returned this year as the flagship sedan from Chrysler, as the Concorde was phased out in Spring of 2004. As such it has a bit more groung dto cover and it does so, with a lower end, Base trim level available to match up with a larger consumer market.
However, the 300M is still a large four-door, near-luxury sedan that seats five with room to spare. Its just that now it offers more with three trim levels, three engines, a wide collection of optional packages and stand-alone extras and all this on generously equipped factory-models with plenty of convenience, luxury and safety features.
Under the Hood
We’ll start the low end of the performabnce profiel on a high note, as it is just low in comparison to its fellow models. The 2.7-liter V6 is a powerful engine that pumps out close to 200 hp. Upgrade to the 2005 Chrysler 300M Touring model and you get a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This generates 250 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 250 lb-ft of torque at 3900 rpm. Even more power.
Both these are dwarfed by the overhead valve V8 that comes in the 300C edition. 5.7-liters of engine displacement result in 340hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, comparable to a large pick-up truck for power. The crafty designers haven’t completely dropped the ball on the fuel economy though, as this engine comes with cylinder deactivation allowing these high numbers to come from a vehicle that actually gets a respectable 17/25mpg (city/hwy). Where the others have a 4-speed auytomatic transmission, the performance-oriented 300C comes equipped with a 5-speed automatic with manual shift capability.
The 300M’s sophisticated underpinning has a four-wheel, fully independent suspension that is available in three states of tune. There is standard touring, an optional performance upgrade for maximum cornering power (part of the Performance Handling Group), and sport-tuned. The 300M Base model is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes and dual-front airbags but the Touring and 300C Editions come with traction control, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and dual front airbags. Front side airbags are optional.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The 2005 Chrysler 300M again show versatility with a Base model that is cheaper and less spectacularly appointed. It is fitted with standard A/C, cruise control, power everything and a decent CD Audio system. A move to the 300M Touring class gets a couple of pemium appointments to make long rides enjoyable; that is, leather upholstery and heated power mirrors. The top-level 300C comes with much more; Boston Acoustics Audio, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, driver seat and mirror memory settings and more.
There are a number options packages and individual add-ons to choose from. For example, the Protection group adds curtain-side airbags and self-sealing tires. Satellite radio, a navigation system, a power sunroof and special paint are also available.
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