2006 Chrysler 300

The 2006 Chrysler 300 SRT-8 was the car that proved big American sedans could once again play in true high-performance territory, and this example captures that era perfectly. Finished in a beautiful Brilliant Black Crystal exterior over a slate/greystone interior, showing only 46,459 miles since new, it delivers the unmistakable presence and power that made the SRT-8 one of the most talked-about four-door performance cars of the 2000s. The long, low body, massive grille, blocky fenders and short overhangs give it that bold, almost gangster stance the 300 became famous for, and in SRT-8 trim it looks even more serious thanks to the lowered ride height, aggressive fascias and 20-inch wheels that frame the big brakes lurking behind them.

At the heart of every 300 SRT-8 is its calling card: the legendary 6.1-liter HEMI V8. This engine is a high-compression, bored-out evolution of the 5.7 HEMI, engineered by SRT to deliver a factory-rated 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. It uses a forged crankshaft, lightened valvetrain components and an aggressive cam profile to spin eagerly to around 6,400 rpm, yet it still has massive torque down low. In independent instrumented testing when new, the 300 SRT-8 was capable of sprinting from 060 mph in the high-four-second range and running the quarter-mile in the low 13s, with an ungoverned top speed reported in the 170+ mph range. All of that power is routed through a five-speed automatic transmission derived from the Mercedes E-Class, calibrated by SRT for quick, decisive shifts and strong kickdown response, sending torque to the rear wheels in classic muscle-sedan fashion. The result is a car that, in its day, could run with far more expensive European super-sedans while wearing a Chrysler badge and a far more attainable window sticker.

Underneath, the 300 SRT-8 has far more going on than just a big engine. Thanks to the DaimlerChrysler era, the 300/300C/SRT-8 and its Dodge Charger sibling ride on a version of the Mercedes W211 E-Class platform. That heritage brings a rear-wheel-drive layout, a solid, German-influenced structure and a level of chassis composure that separated the 300 from traditional front-wheel-drive full-size sedans like the Toyota Avalon and Buick Lucerne. SRT further lowered and stiffened the suspension, fitted larger front and rear knuckles and wrapped 20-inch wheels in high-performance rubber, giving the SRT-8 impressive grip for a big sedan and a planted, confident feel at speed. Large performance brakes with multi-piston calipers and oversized rotors give the SRT-8 braking distances that, when new, rivaled some of the best European sports sedans of its time. The net effect is a car that feels substantial and secure on the road, with the rear-drive balance and chassis tuning enthusiasts expect from a serious performance sedan.

Inside, this 300 SRT-8 continues the theme of purposeful performance with added comfort. The slate/greystone interior features leather seats with SRT8 embossed into the backrests, giving the cabin a clear visual link to the cars high-performance mission. The front seats offer substantial bolstering to help hold you in place during spirited driving, while still providing the everyday comfort expected from a large American sedan. This example is equipped with power-adjustable heated front seats, allowing both driver and front passenger to fine-tune their seating position and stay comfortable in cooler weather, and power mirrors for easy adjustment from the drivers seat. The overall layout is straightforward and driver-focused, with large, easy-to-read gauges and intuitive controls that give the cabin a clean, functional feel rather than trying to distract from what the car is really about: that SRT-8 powertrain and chassis.

To bring the in-car experience up to date, this 300 SRT-8 has been fitted with a new infotainment screen that integrates AM/FM radio and Bluetooth connectivity, adding mode