2005 Chrysler 300C

Its sophisticated, fully independent suspension, based on Mercedes-Benz designs, is comparable to the current E-Class.

Despite its stylishly low, "hammered" roofline, there's more room inside than a standard wheelbase BMW 745i. With supportive bucket seats, tasteful wood (or optional tortoise shell) trim, and big, easy-to-read analog instrumentation, the 300C's classy cabin equals anything from Europe at twice the sticker. If you need more space, Dodge offers a sporty station wagon version, the Hemi-powered Magnum RT. The new, no-excuses 300C seriously challenges Cadillac's smaller CTS-V as America's best-handling sports sedan. It resembles a 7/8ths scale Bentley Arnage (and can run with one, too) for less than one-fifth the price.


For the record, Chrysler offers the 300 in four trim/power levels: a base 2.7-liter, 190-hp V-6 for about $25K; the 300 Touring, with a 250-hp, 3.5-liter V-6, for $29K, including the killer stereo; the 300 Limited, which retains the 3.5 V-8 and adds a nicely bundled package of trim and accessories; and the 300C. While the 250-hp engine is more than acceptable, even with the specter of increased fuel prices, enthusiasts will insist on the 5.7-liter, 350-hp V-8 in the 300C, and they won't be disappointed.


Bottom line: the new 300 is as much a standout today as was the original in its era. The first C300 was a 2-door hardtop with an attitude; its successor offers more speed, more space, impeccable road manners, and even more attitude. Nothing this size, from Cadillac, BMW or any Japanese carmaker has the 300C's cool combination of torque-y American grunt blended with firm, European style, ride and agile handling. Think of it as an E-Class Mercedes or a 5 Series BMW, for a lot less money. (www.chrysler.com)