Second Hand SenseTHE CHRYSLER 300 C is hardly a subtle introduction to American motoring. Sold in Europe as a competitor to the big brand names such as Mercedes and BMW, the big Chrysler looks very different to the European eye - big, brash and muscular. Some even consider it vulgar.
It should not be underestimated, however, for it has many qualities that will take some time to discover. It does not have the refinement of one of its arch competitors - the BMW 5-Series - which has an air of discretion about it. The Chrysler is more in the Bentley mode.
Most American cars are front-wheel-drive but this one has rear-wheel-drive, perhaps to make it more appealing to European drivers. When I first drove the car it was a very different experience to the normal European one. The wheels are huge, the dashboard and instruments are on a rather grand scale and I did not expect it would be as rewarding to drive as those cars created from years of German engineering.
It is a very comfortable car to drive and the Mercedes engine did as good a job as it ever did in a car with a three-pointed star on the bonnet.
There are petrol and diesel engines, although for a car of this size only the 3.0-litre diesel really makes sense. There is also a 3.5-litre petrol.
With a big car like this you will find parking and city driving somewhat tiresome. It is at its best on the open road when it cruises very well and gives a great feeling of space and comfort. There is a big boot and plenty of space for everyone, although the transmission tunnel does take up quite bit of space.
The 300 has not undergone the European NCAP crash test programme but its tonnage alone should ensure good levels of safety. Neither does it have a major recall record.
A 2006 model with the 3.5-litre petrol engine, air conditioing, leather upholstery, satellite navigation, multiple airbags, climate control, traction control, all electrics and more and with 24,000km has an asking price of €40,000. A 2006 diesel with the same equipment and 71,000km costs €38,000 and a one-year-old diesel with 12,000km has an asking price of €49,950.