The iconic Chrysler 300C has bid adieu to the automotive stage, as Stellantis, the parent company, recently made the decision to discontinue this legendary model. The final iteration rolled off the assembly line on December 8, marking the end of an era, and the production of the entire 300 series is set to conclude by December 31, 2023.
In a poignant tribute to this automotive icon, employees at the Brampton factory in Ontario, Canada, gathered around the last crafted specimen, capturing the moment with a commemorative photograph. This final example boasts a Velvet Red paint finish and houses the robust 6.4-liter HEMI V8, delivering an impressive 485 horsepower (492 ps/362 kW) and 475 pound-feet (644 Nm) of torque. Accelerating to 60 mph (97 kph) in just 4.3 seconds, it completes a quarter-mile in a swift 12.4 seconds.
Beyond its formidable powerplant, the Chrysler 300C showcased additional features such as an active damping suspension, a limited-slip differential, and eye-catching four-piston brake calipers crafted by Brembo with a distinctive red appearance. The active exhaust system, complete with round tailpipes, emanates a resonant and distinctive engine note. Black chrome accents, Lanua leather upholstery, front sports seats, and other distinctive elements further set it apart from the automotive crowd.
Alex Pittas, the manager of the Brampton Assembly, expressed pride in the workforce’s dedication, stating, “Our workforce here at Brampton Assembly has a reputation for building top-quality vehicles, and the Chrysler 300C was no different. We are proud of the workmanship and detail that went into all the 2,200 that rolled down our assembly line in 2023.” He highlighted the remarkable demand for the final units, with 2,000 destined for the United States and 200 for Canada, all spoken for within half a day of opening reservations.
The departure of the outgoing Chrysler 300 aligns with the automotive industry’s shift toward an electrified future. Making way for this transformation, the brand’s upcoming electric vehicle is expected to take the form of a stylish crossover. However, there are hints from CEO Chris Feuell that an electric sedan, potentially serving as the spiritual successor to the 300, may also be in the cards.
It’s worth noting that Stellantis is poised to bid farewell to the Dodge Challenger and Charger as well. A teaser of the upcoming Charger muscle car has already been released, expected to feature various electric powertrains alongside traditional internal combustion options. This strategic move positions it favorably against competitors like the new-gen Ford Mustang, available solely with a 2.3L four-cylinder and a 5.0L V8 in different trim levels. The highly anticipated next-gen Dodge Charger is slated for a debut at the end of the following year, entering the market as a 2025 model. As the curtain falls on the Chrysler 300C, the automotive world eagerly awaits the electrifying future that Stellantis has in store.
