Future classic? Why the imposing Chrysler 300C is a cut-price icon

Marriages don’t always work, and sometimes the offspring is the best thing to come out of it.

A few heads were scratched when Daimler-Benz decided to merge with Chrysler in 1998. And the doubters were proved right when less than ten years later Daimler sold Chrysler after big losses.

It was a bad period for both companies and the collaborative products weren’t exactly stellar either. The Chrysler Crossfire was based on the R170 Mercedes SLK, but didn’t drive that well and only lasted four years. But another product to come from this unholy matrimony was the Chrysler 300C.

While it rode on the American firm’s LX platform which owed little to its German partner, some of its design was based on Mercedes knowhow.

More importantly, a lot of what was attached to it wore the Mercedes logo. Diesel 300Cs used the Mercedes OM642 3.0-litre V6, and while not flawless in terms of reliability, was at least punchy and refined.

The independent rear suspension was pinched from the W210 Mercedes E-Class, while at the front it used a double wishbone setup based on the arrangement found underneath the W220 Mercedes S-Class. The 300C also took a lot of other hardware from the Mercedes parts bin, including the five-speed automatic, electronics, safety systems and even plenty of switchgear. 

In truth, this wasn’t the greatest era of reliability for Mercedes, but arguably it stood a better chance than the same components from across the pond.

More importantly, the 300C’s exterior design made it stand out from the crowd. The last car from Chrysler designed under Tom Gale – responsible for designs like the Dodge Viper RT/10 and Plymouth Prowler – it was unashamedly retro with its Art Deco inspired looks.

It bucked the trend of large glasshouses with its high waistline and deep flanks while the grille occupied about 60% of the entire frontal area, which made it hard to miss...

Understandably not everyone was a fan of its looks, but it was unashamedly bold and different. There was also an estate version called the 300C Touring which stayed faithful to the saloon’s design.

To drive, the 300C feels more American than German. It’s a cruiser rather than a sporting saloon, but once you accept that there’s pleasure to be had in bowling along, looking down the long bonnet and pretending you’re on a mission for an underground crime syndicate.

It’s big and comfortable inside and although there’s plenty of cheap plastics around, the mix of leather and wood that came on most cars at least gives some luxury vibes.

The 300C was never a big seller in this country, but for something so niche a good number have survived. Looking after one may take a little resourcefulness – while Chrysler stopped selling new cars here in 2017 it was part of Fiat then which is a part of Stellantis now, so finding a good specialist who understands its mixed parentage will be a big help.

Reliability wise, the main things to look for are electronic headaches and suspension issues. Mixed-parentage electronics can mean getting to the bottom of a niggle might take time, so a thorough check that everything works as it should is a must. As for suspension, noisy front arms are a common issue so expect to change bushes if this hasn’t already been done.

As for engines, the V6 diesel was the most popular choice over here, which can suffer with failed turbo actuators, swirl flap issues and oil cooler leaks, but being a Mercedes unit there are plenty of specialists who can help. The V6 and V8 petrol options are tough and reliable, but more rare.

Finding one is not as difficult as you might think. We found more than half a dozen diesels for £3000 or less and without starship mileages either. A budget of £5000 to £6000 will get you a clean example with modest miles and a good history, but expect to pay £7000 upwards for a V8. The SRT-8 performance model with a 6.1-litre Hemi V8 is rarer still so expect to pay £15,000.

The 300C fits neatly into the pigeonhole of a classic that is pretty rare but usable and could make a fine daily without costing you several limbs to keep on the road. As is often the case, an interesting back story makes for a car with potential to become ever-more desirable with time.