Evolution of the Chrysler 300 Letter Series
In 1955, Chrysler introduced the C-300, a homologation special that reshaped the American high-performance market. The subsequent 300B (1956) became the first American production model to achieve one horsepower per cubic inch, marking the emergence of early muscle cars. Despite their power and luxury, the C-300 and 300B faced slow sales, totaling less than 3,000 units combined.
Undeterred by sales figures, Chrysler persisted in producing the 300 series, updating it annually. Over the years, this high-performance personal luxury car spawned 11 different iterations, each contributing unique features to the iconic letter series.
While the C-300 through 300E models (1955-1959) are highly sought after, later iterations also boast distinctive achievements. The 1960 Chrysler 300F, with a 400-horsepower engine option, and the rare 1963 300J, with only 400 units sold, stand out among the diverse family of 300 letter series cars.
The 1965 Chrysler 300L – A Land Yacht with a Twist
In 1965, Chrysler unveiled the 300L, the final iteration of the series. Departing from previous designs, the 300L featured a significantly longer and boxier appearance. With a length of 218.2 inches, including a lengthened wheelbase of 124 inches, the 300L offered increased legroom and a departure from the Virgil Exner styling of the early 1960s.
Despite its larger size, the 300L maintained its high performance with a 413-cubic-inch Golden Lion engine delivering 360 horsepower to the rear wheels. Surprisingly, the 300L became one of the most popular iterations, with 2,845 units sold, second only to the 300K.
The 300L, now a classic, is particularly rare, especially in its convertible body style, with only 440 units produced. However, what sets it apart is the availability of a four-speed manual gearbox, offered in just 108 units. Recently auctioned off at Kissimmee 2024, a black hardtop variant fetched attention as one of only 96 hardtops equipped with the 413/manual combination.
Unique Features of the 1965 Chrysler 300L
The featured 300L, a black hardtop, recently sold for $82,500 at Kissimmee 2024. Despite its age, it retained much of its original black paint, earning recognition at the 2023 Carlisle Chrysler Nationals.
This specific 300L stands out further with its four-speed manual gearbox, a rarity among the 300 letter series. Moreover, it boasts a dealer-installed dual four-barrel carburetor upgrade, distinguishing it as one of the few with this particular setup.
Remarkably, this 300L is a survivor, displaying original black paint and earning accolades at the 2023 Carlisle Chrysler Nationals. Its excellent condition makes it a bargain at $82,500 compared to earlier iterations of the 300 letter series in similar states.
# FAQs
**Q1: What is the Chrysler 300 letter series?**
A1: The Chrysler 300 letter series comprises a line of high-performance personal luxury cars introduced in 1955.
**Q2: What makes the 1965 Chrysler 300L unique?**
A2: The 1965 Chrysler 300L stands out for its radical design, increased dimensions, and the availability of a four-speed manual gearbox, with only 108 units produced.
**Q3: How much did the recently auctioned 300L sell for, and what makes it special?**
A3: The black hardtop 300L sold for $82,500. Its rarity lies in being one of only 96 hardtops equipped with the 413/manual combo and featuring a dealer-installed dual four-barrel carburetor upgrade.
