Chrysler 300M

The Chrysler 300M was introduced in mid-1998 as an early 1999 model along with the nearly-identical LHS. As to where the "M" suffix originated, it picked up where the 300-L left off after it was discontinued in 1966 (prior to that, Chrysler had the 300-K in 1965, the 300-J in 1964, and so on). The 300M was naturally based on the lesser Concorde model, even sharing its 113" platform, and was not only more upscale but had a much sportier character than the Concorde and LHS. It differed externally from the LHS with a different grille and taillights, and less chrome and glitz.

Standard and only engine choice was the 253 hp 3.5L (215 cid) V6 with a 4-speed "autostick" transmission, which permitted manually-selected gear changes using a separate shift gate. Antilock all-disc brakes and traction control were standard. All 300Ms had front bucket seats, and the 300M had a sportier-tuned suspension that wasn't shared with the LHS or Concorde. A performance handling package was optional, and oddly came with 16" performance tires, a size smaller than the standard 17" tires with the standard suspension. 2000 300Ms got a 4-disc CD-changer added to the options list, along with chrome wheels for the performance handling package. 2001s could now have side-impact airbags, and other new standard features included steering-wheel audio controls and 3-point safety belt for the center rear position. The performance handling package now had 17" tires and optional chrome rims. The LHS would go away permanently after this year.

2002 was the year for the 300M Special, which had unique trim, stiffer suspension and "xenon" headlights. 18" rims were standard on the Special, 17"s were still standard on the base version. 2003s got an optional satellite radio, and 2004s could have a new navigational package, and that was pretty much it for the 300M's final year. The 300M (and Concorde) would both be replaced by the all-new rear-drive 300, which would have a choice of 2 V6s or 2 Hemi V8s.

Main Competitors

To be continued...