1961 Chrysler 300 Series Additional Info:
Out of 1280 Hardtops made, Only 445 known to exist & this is 1 of the very Best!
Exterior Color: Mardi Gras Red (Factory Code PP1.....71203)
Interior: Tan Leather (Gary Goers Legendary Craftsmanship)
Engine: Original 413 CID V-8 with Ram Induction/Dual Carter 4bbl Carburetors (professionally Rebuilt)
Horsepower: Factory rated a a very conservative 375 Horsepower
Torque: 495 Ft. Lbs @ 2800 rpms.
Rear Axle: 3:23 sure grip
Transmission: Three Speed Automatic Push Button Torqueflite (Professionally Rebuilt)
Mileage: 63,005
Serial Number: 8413160191
Actual Footage of this Chrysler 300G filmed on our new Drone! You can watch 8 more videos of this car at the bottom of the description!
Decoding the serial number.
| Serial Numbers Started at 8413100001
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VIN Description | Total Digits: 10 |
| Digits 1: Make-8= Chrysler |
| Digits 2: Series & Body style-4= 300G Sport 2 Door Hard Top |
| Digits 3: Model year-1= 1961 |
| Digits 4: Assembly plant-3= Jefferson Plant, Detroit, Michigan |
| Digits 5-10: Production number- 160191 |
| Plate on front door hinge post. (See Photo Of Vin Plate)
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MSRP of 1961 300G 2/Door Sport Hard Top: $5413.00MSRP of Convertible: $5843.00
Optional Equipment Offered in 1961 for 300G (Options on this car Highlighted in Red)
383 = Remote Control LH outside Mirror = $18
293 = Power Front Seats = $101.90
441 = Solex Tinted Glass (all windows) = $43.10
306 = Acc Grp. Golden Touch Tune Radio W/rear Speaker / Heater/ Rear widow Defogger/ Power Antenna & Grp A= $302.55
313 = Air Conditioning. Ordered with Accessory Grp # 306 = $408.50
617 = Permanent Antifreeze = $5.90
379 = Sure Grip Differential = $51.70
Paint Codes.............. Ditzler CombinationBB-1 = Formal Black .................. 9000
PP-1 = Mardi Gras Red ...................... 71203
RR-1 = Cinnamon ....................... 71140
WW-1 = Alaskan White ..................... 8218
Summary Of This Car
MSRP of 1961 300G 2/Door Sport Hard Top: $5413.00
Total: $6344.65Additional Costs were Shipping and any dealer Prep, Undercoating, Sales Taxes, etc.
The "out the door" price on this magnificent 300G wasright at $7000.The ONLY American made cars that could have been a couplehundred dollars moreif you orderedevery single option could have been a Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Convertibleor a Lincoln Continental 4 door convertible.
The 300G represented Chrysler’s last and most dramatically styled letter cars. Retaining the flamboyant fins of its predecessor and extensive brightwork, the 300G was a sight as it came hurtling down the road. Without a doubt one of the more lavishly appointed cars when it came to the interior, they were luxurious and exceptionally fast, aimed to the moneyed motoring enthusiasts of the early 1960s. The Wedge head V8 offered ample performance and ride control was excellent. They offered dramatic new styling, but at the same time, still remained clearly conceived and built on the foundations of 300C.
The 300G unquestionably represents one of the last great letter series cars. In the ensuing years the cars were shaped more by social concerns than by engineers and, as such, the 300G continues to be one of the most collectable cars of the 1960s. With its distinctive styling and driving manners, it will continue to appreciate in both value and enthusiasts’ esteem.
Chrysler's domination of the Flying Mile at Daytona Beach
In 1961 on the hard packed sands of Daytona Beach,"THE FLYING MILE" was wonby a private owner in a Chrysler 300G 2 Door Hardtop, Mr. Gregg Ziegler. His car was equipped witha 3 Speed manual transmission and was a 413 CID V-8 with 2-4's (Ram-Induction) rated at 400hp.
His winning MPH was 143MPH, a full 10mph faster than the Chevrolet Factory's 409 whichturned in a time of 133.1MPH.
Chevrolet also won 3rd, 4th and 5th but it is important to note that 3 other privately ownedChrysler 300G's were disqualifiedbecause a piece of aluminum windshield moldingweighing only a few ounces flew off their cars during their runs.
If not, Chrysler would have won 1st, 2nd,3rd and 4th place. The owners and their 300G FLYING MILE times were as follows:
Mr. Fauble at 145.9 mph, Chrysler 300GMr. Fisher at 144.1 mph, Chrysler 300GMr. Koechling at 142.3 mph, Chrysler 300G
I have always been slightly partial to GM, probably because my late Uncle was a winner of the Indy500 in 1960and opened a Chevrolet/Cadillac Dealership in 1961. I successfully raced and campaigned several Chevysat drag stripsthroughout the U.S.
Jim Rathmann passed away in 2011 and at that time was the oldest living winner of the Indianapolis 500.
Jim is greatly missed by all who fortunate enough to know him. I spent many a weekend with Jim up at the Capedrag racing with my "Black Thunder" (my 62 Chevy 409 Z11) and several of the original Mercury Astronauts who hadCorvettes that had come from Jim Rathmann Chevrolet/Cadillac in Melbourne,FL.
However, to be perfectly honest, it wasn't the couple of ounces of molding that were blown off atthe flying mile competitionin 1961 at Daytona Beach...it was the DOORS OF ALL THE COMPETITIONthat tried to best the Chrysler 300G in a TOP END race.
Let me share briefly my 1st hand experience with a 1961 300G.
This really has nothing to do with the auction and if your notinterested in hearing abouta couple of kids racing their Father's 300G than please skip this story.
My Father's Brother had bought a new 1961 Chrysler 300G right off the showroom floor of a ChryslerDealership inYoungstown, Ohio. I really don't think he had a clue that his Son (my 1st cousin) had persuaded him to buy a carcapable of almost 140mph with 375hp.
Within a couple of weeks Sam was able to get the use of his Dad's 300G and that Summer was one I'llnever forget.Youngstown was only 10 miles from the Pennsylvania Border and every Saturday nightwe would drive theWonder Boy Drive-inrestaurant in New Castle.
Sam & I would challenge every car at the Wonder Boy to a "Top End" race for $50 (a lot of $ in 1961)
He always managed to find at least 1 or 2 takersand we would head back out of New Castle on Route 422.
There was a nice 5 mile flat stretch of highwaythat ended just as you left Pennsylvania and crossed the border into Ohio.In 1961, the State Police would not give chasefrom one State to another to give out speeding tickets so we knew we couldn'tbe pursued from Pennsylvania into Ohio.
We had that 5 mile stretch measured off intofive, one mile increments with a "spotter" at each mile marker.We gave every challenger a 10 car lead...but not a rolling 10 car start...a standing 10 car lead.It didn't matter...we could have given them an 1/8th mile or 1/4 mile standing start lead.
Once that 300G shifted into high gear and was turning 4500-4800rpms, we passed every challenger so quicklythat several guys told me that "I had to look at my tach to make sure my engine hadn't shut off"
Needless to say we were never really challenged and thankfully never "blew" the engine in the 300G.However, several guys "lunched" their engines trying to catch the 300G.
After a mile of running as fast as we could, I would back off and do the remaining 4 miles at 120mph which waslike a "Sunday Afternoon Cruise" in the 300G. I knowSam & Iwon over $2000 in the Summer of 1961...money that enabled me to trade in my 1960 348/335Hp Chevrolet Impala for a 1962 Chevy Impala SS 409/409at my Uncle's Chevy dealership in Melbourne, Florida. (Jim Rathmann Chevrolet/Cadillac)
These Chrysler 300G's were and still are spectacular looking works of mechanical art designed by Virgil Exnerand engineering marvels from the genius engineers who worked at Chrysler in the 50's and 60's.
Now back to this 300G being offered onebaymotors.com
So how nice is this 300G? In one word.....SPECTACULAR!
The paint is gorgeous....with a deep gloss that looks like you could almost stick your hand inside the finish.
This car shows no signs of ever having been rusty or in need of body repair. The doors, hood andtrunk all fit fabulous.
The chrome, trim and pot metal are show quality. I could not find any pitting or discoloration of the chrome or trim. It really is gorgeous!
You can kneel down and look along either side of this work of mechanical art and there are no waves or ripples in the body panels.
The test of a really great restoration is not how the cars looks when 1st done...or how it looks just1 or 2 years later....but how the car stands the test of time 5, 10, 15 or even 20 years later.
The awards this car received were from 1996,1997,2000 which validates that the nut & bolt veryexpensive restoration was finished in 1996.
This 300G is of the same quality of a 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible we sold recently for $125,000that was restored in 1994.The 68 Shelby & this Chrysler 300G both looklike they were restoredwithin the past year or two.
The interior is fantastic and it is Gary Goers Leather. Gary iswithout a doubtthe finest fabricator of Chrysler 300interiors in the world...no one even comes close. Gary fabricates 100's of partsfor MoPar Cars from the 50's & 60'sandlives in Kalispiel, Montana.
We spent over $35,000 dollars on this car making all the power windows, power seats, radio,power antenna,factory air-conditioning, defroster/Heater, horn, lights, dash controls, wipers, etc. work as they should.
Everything is documented by receipts & invoices.
The electroluminescent dash....OMG...we couldhave bought a nice collectable car for the moneywe spent on the dash...but it now looks and works better than new!
What exactly is Electroluminescent?
How do these gauges light without bulbs, filaments or gases?
The answer lies in ceramic engineering!
The gauges and pointers are composed of laminated layersof material which glow when a high voltage alternating currentis applied. As a result, the pointers are a light source in themselves,as are the gauges.
A typical gauge or pointer is composed of several layers:
* A sheet of vitreous enameling steel forms the instrument back
* A layer of solid ceramic is applied to the steel sheet
* Another layer is added which has electroluminescent phosphor suspend in ceramic
* A transparent, electrically conducting layer is then added
* A finished layer of transparent glass coating is then sprayed on
When you think that all of this was created by engineers who worked for Chryslerin 1960, one must marvel at the pure genius of the guys and gals who innovated a dashthat looked like "A Wurlitzer illuminated Bubbler Jukebox" in your dash.
That is why we decided to make every light and every switch and every gauge wouldhave worked they day you took delivery of your 1961 Chrysler 300G.
What is the "Power Pack" ?
The gauges and pointers are powered by a power pack which converts the 12 volts D/Cto 200 volts AC at 250 cycles per second. The power pack is mounted on the cowl sidepanel underneath the instrument panel on a 1960 Chrysler 300F and a 1961 Chrysler300G.
BONUS: Not only does our car have a new power pack but we were able to find a brand newone in it's original 1961 MoPar box which will be included with the sale of this car.
QUESTION: How is it possible to spend more money restoring the dash and all of the electricalswitches and controls in this car than more than three times the amount it would have cost backin 1961 to buy three brand new Chrysler 300G's? ( $20,000)
ANSWER: It's easy. All that is required is that like us, you are a perfectionist and possiblyslightly O/C ....yes, we admitwere are obsessive/compulsive when it comes to our cars.After 56 years in this incredible hobby, we are very cognizant that is no shortcut when itcomes to perfection...and this 300G deserved perfection.
First we sought out a company that could make an EXACT show quality reproductionof the originalwiring harness's and we found a lovely couple in Canada. We wholeheartedly recommendthat you seek out the EXPERT services of Greg Leggat in Napanee, Ontario Canada.
Greg custom made in the exact correct colors and gauge, wiring harness's from the engine tothe dash, from the dash to the controls and from the dash all the way back to thetrunk and tail lights. They did it in the time frame they promised and at the exact price quoted.
Were their services inexpensive?
No, but they were fair and did an EXCELLENT job andevery single wire had a small tag on it stating where it was to go.
For the entire dash, the electroluminescent dome and every gauge and every control in the carwe went to the acknowledged world experts, Jeff and his wonderful team at JC Autoin Lynnwood, Washington.
I honestly don't believe any company in the world knows more about these incredible1960 and 1961 Chrysler 300 letter cars than Jeff and his team. They work on almost everytype of MoPar cars and over the last 6 months with many, many conversations I considerJC Auto to be one of the most professional and honest company's I have encounteredin the vintage automobile industry.
Are they expensive? Of course....but if you want perfection and experience on workingon these very specialized intricate cars since 1978, you shouldn't expect "bargain basement"pricing.
We are proud to have all the Chrysler 300 letter cars in our Garage Memories Collection...1957 through 1961, both the convertibles and hardtops.
I am convinced that in less than 10 years, a 61 Chrysler 300G coupe in this conditionwill command a price of $500,000 and a Convertible will approach $1,000,000.
So how did we spend over $20,000 on just the dash and electrical functions...here is a partial list....
We were able to find a perfect used Electroluminescent dome and had itrestored to brand new condition.
We had the speedometer and odometer completely disassembled and restored.
We had our clock completely rebuilt and restored with a new quartz movement
We had our tachometer completely disassembled, restored and rebuilt.
We had the Touch-tune pushbutton radio, disassembled, restored and rebuilt.
We had the front and rear speakers completely rebuilt to original specs.
We had the front & rear speaker switch rebuilt and restored.
We had the power antenna switch rebuilt and restored the entire powerantenna motor & mechanism and bought a new antenna & antenna cablefrom theback all the way to the dashand the radio.
We had all of the Transmission Torque-flite buttons & mechanism completelyrebuilt and restored.
We had the headlamp switch restored and rebuilt.
We had the courtesy lamp switch rebuilt and restored
We had the map lamp switch rebuilt and restored
We had the dome lamp switch rebuilt and restored.
We had the turn signal switch rebuilt and restored as well as theturn signal canceling switch.
We had the variable speed wiper switch rebuilt and restored.
We had all of the A/C, defroster and heater switches rebuilt and restored.
We had the Power seat switch rebuilt.
We had the entire horn mechanism and horn relays either replaced or rebuilt.
We got very lucky and were able to find both the 4 power window switch assemblyas well as the two rear mounted power window switch assembly brand new in1961 MoPar original boxes.
We also were fortunate and found a brand new original MoPar fuse blockin it's original MoPar box. YIKES this stuff is EXPENSIVE!
Every gauge works AS NEW.
Every light works exactly as it would have worked on a brand new Chrysler 300Gback in 1961.
The radio sounds incredible. Not only did JC Autodo an incredible job on all the electronics, but the rebuilt the frontand rear speakers to perfection...I doubt if the radio sounded this good in 1961.
The AC blows ice cold.
The clock keeps exact time.
All the gauges are accurate...including the gas gauge and every othergauge...if it required a sending unit to work....we bought new ones.
Whoever is lucky enough will absolutely marvel when they drive this car atnight and turn on the lights.....When I turned on the dash for the 1st time in thiscar...pure car delight.....don't laugh...almost orgasmic......lol....Driving theseincredible cars is the most fun I can have (with all my clothes on)
When we replaced the battery cables...we bought them from JC Auto...because we wanted theexact cables that this car would have come with in 1961.
What about the steering wheel?
Here again we went to a world renowned EXPERT,Bob Deneault with D & D Automobiliain Lincolntown, NC.. He said it would take5-6 months. Bob restored our steering wheel injust under 4 months. It is a very, verytedious process with almost 25 different stages to the final result.
EXPENSIVE...Hell yes?....$1650 but the final product is worth every cent. And likeGreg in Canada and Jeff with JC Auto in Washington, Bob is one terrific guy.
We also want to thank Gil Cunningham, President of the Chrysler 300 letter club for all ofhis assistance, the people atFCA (Chrysler/Fiat/Automobile) historical society whowere able to getus all the factorydocumentation and build card on this car, and lastbut certainly not least to GaryGoers in Kalispell, Montana who even though fightingthrough some pretty serious health issues, is unquestionable the best sourcein the world for everything related to Chrysler 300 letter cars.
I have only touched on some of the work that went into restoring this car....if yourseriously interested in owning this 300G, please give us a call at(954) 873-6495and I'll share with you more of what went into this restoration.
I'll also give you the lowest possible "buy it now" price
There were a couple of places on this car that evidently had acquired small chips in the paint and were touched up.We have a fantastic painter who matched the paint to perfection and we had the entire panels repainted and I wouldchallenge anyone to look at this car and to try and detect where this work was done. Forty years of painting carsplus the use of a modern daycomputer that matches paint to perfection is a winning combination!
We are extremely fussy and are car lovers and collectors first and foremost. Before we even considerselling any car...it first has to be nice enough to take it's place among all of our other cars in our museum.....Garage Memories.
Only then do we offer any car for sale!
Looking nice if a must...but so is they way it starts, idles, runs and drives. We made this car run anddrive just as it looks...FANTASTIC!
Here is a fabulous photo of another 300G car taken by Marc Rozman that can be seen at Allpar.Thisis NOT the car we are selling, but it is the same color combination. Kudos to you Marc for taking such a fabulous photograph!!!
Options and standard features included remote control outside mirror, day/night mirror (attached to the dash),pushbutton air conditioner (dual setup available on some cars, but not convertibles), swivel seats,Sure-Grip differential, power locks and windows, electric clock, pushbutton automatic, pushbutton windshield washer,powerbrakes, pushbutton radio (Golden Touch had a foot-operated station changer), power antenna, rear speaker, and cruise control, set by dial.
For those interested...here is the history of the Chrysler 300 letter cars as masterfully told by Tony Rinaldi.Thank you Tony for a very well written account of Chrysler 300 letter car history!
Chrysler 300 Letter Car HistoryNovember, 2014 | by Tony Rinaldi |
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First Generation: 1955-1956Officially offered for sale on February 10, 1955, the first Chrysler 300 was athleticlooking with 300 gross horsepower aboard, it was among the quickest cars of its time. It was able to achieve 60 mph in just 9.8 seconds, according to a test in Mechanix Illustrated by “Uncle Tom” McCahill. Uncle Tom also spurred the car up to a full 130mph. Tom McCahill and others in the contemporary automotive press, used the term Beautiful Brutes” to describe Chrysler 300 series cars.Besides being the most powerful production car of its time, the first Chrysler 300 was also among the best handling, thanks to a heavy-duty suspension. It can very well be considered an ancestor of the later muscle cars, though much more expensive, luxurious and exclusive.The most prominent display of the first 300’s attributes did not come in any showroom, but on racetracks around the Southeast. Back in 1955, NASCAR stock cars were, in fact, stock production vehicles. Except for some crude safety equipment and numbers on the doors, they were almost indistinguishable from the cars the public could buy. With absolutely no financial support from Chrysler, Mercury Outboard founder Carl Kiekhaefer campaigned a fleet of white 300s during the 1955 NASCAR and AAA seasons with drivers like the Flock brothers (Tim, Fonty and Bob), Norm Nelson, Buck Baker, Speedy Thompson and Frank Mundy to name a few.The Kiekhaefer 300s were spectacularly dominant and overwhelmed the factory-backed Chevrolets and Fords. Tim Flock took the driver’s championship while winning 18 races. He finished in the top five an astounding 32 times. His brother, Fonty, took another three victories, while Chrysler campaigner Lee Petty took home three trophies. Suddenly, the 300 had a glorious racing heritage in addition to its advertised Hundred Million Dollar Looks.Considering the short model year for that first 300, 1,725 were sold at an expensive $4,109 base price.This was the car to start the legacy. It had Virgil Exner’s distinctive styling and the 331hemi. The 1955 300 had a two door coupe body and clean, simple Chrysler Windsor side and rear quarter trim. Up front were two large Imperial “egg crate” grilles. This first of the letter series cars did not actually bear a letter. Chrysler’s original manuals named it the C-300, which was an appropriate name for the car. The “C-” designation was applied to all Chrysler models, and the 300 stood for the engine horsepower.It was THE first modern American production car to achieve this output. Power came from an updated source already available; the fabled “Hemi”331 cubic inch hemispherical head engine, modified with a “full race” cam, larger dual exhaust, and topped off with 2 4-barrel carburetors. The suspension was made firmer, allowing it to handle far better than most cars. It was given a special performance PowerFlite transmission, while the inside remained pure luxury.Notably, it was fast. The battle lines would be drawn, when it did 127.58 mph in the flying mile at Daytona, and averaged 92 mph in the Daytona Grand National stock car race. This car dominated the stock car circuit, earning the NASCAR and AAA championships its first year out.The car was only available in three exterior colors: Black, Tango Red and Platinum, combined with a luxurious tan leather interior.Production: 1,725 unitsFrom 1956 – through 1965, each year’s model used a new letter of the alphabet as a suffix. It was no surprise that the 1956 300 was pretty much a carryover machine. Actually, the easiest way to tell the ‘56 300-B from the ’55 C-300 was Exner’s new bigger fins. Of course, it now wore the name “300-B.”Beyond that name modification and new taillights, the 300-B also featured the latest version of the Hemi V8, now displacing 354 cubic inches and producing 340 hp. In addition, there was also an optional version featuring a 10.0:1 compression ratio that was rated at 355 hp, thereby achieving the long sought goal of one hp per cubic inch engine displacement. (One year before Chevrolet’s 283/283 of 1957!) Standard for the 355 hp hemi was a special three inch exhaust system.The 300-B transmission availability was a PowerFlite 2-speed automatic or a 3-speed manual. Later in the year, the 3-speed TorqueFlite would become available. Twin 4-barrel carburetors were still standard.In the racing arena, the increased output helped the 300-B to win the Daytona Flying Mile with a top speed of 139.373 mph, a new record. Again the 300-B dominated the Grand National circuit to take its second Grand National Championship. The 300’s accomplishments, from 1955 and 1956, would give it legendary status in the car world.Success on the racetrack continued, but sales softened a bit.Production: 1,102 unitsSecond Generation: 1957-1959Virgil Exner, then Chrysler’s design chief, called his new styling direction the “Forward Look.” Upswept tailfins adorned the car’s rear flanks. The car that best exemplified the new look was the 300-C. This car was glamorous. From its Ferrari-like grille to the bold rear fins, the 300-C exuded sex appeal in a way no domestic car had before it. The original 300-C is still considered by many to be among the most beautiful and desirable 300s of them all.More than just the sheet metal was new, as Chrysler put a whole new chassis under its cars for ‘57-’59, featuring a torsion bar front suspension.The first two years of the 300 may have established the marque’s performance credentials, but it was the 300-C that added to the 300 aura of greatness. The 300-C was also the first 300 available as a convertible. This car featured a massive cross based frame, so it handled as well as its stiffer bodied coupes. The 300-C received 6 red, white and blue &rdquo300” badges of a totally new circular design. Brake cooling ducts (probably a first) were also standard.The hemi engine grew to a final size of 392 cubic inches and a standard output of 375 hp. The 300-C advertising boasted that it had America’s Most Powerful Production Engine. For even more performance, a more radical cam, and 10.0:1 compression, raised the output to 390 hp. These very limited production higher hp engines also had larger diameter exhaust pipes. The standard motor received the newly upgraded 3-speed TorqueFlight, an outstanding and responsive automatic transmission.Three-speed manual transmissions were included in and only available in the 18 special high performance chassis package 300-Cs that also included the 390 hp engine, special cam and exhaust. To go with the new higher performance 300-C Hemis, there was also a new torsion bar based front suspension. It featured angled upper and lower control arms to reduce dive under braking. There were twin leading shoe front brakes, with 9.00 x 14 inch Goodyear Blue Streak Nylon race tires on wider rims.Fins were now the Industry wide rage, and the 1957 300-Cs took fins to a new, yet pure level. They started at the rear edge of the door opening, and continued in one near straight simple line up to the top of each tail light tip. The only chrome on the clean side styling was a simple spear-like trim on the rear quarters, which included a proud 300-C in a simple chrome ring medallion. This red, white, and blue 300 medallion design was also featured on the grille, glove box door, trunk and steering wheel center. Virgil Exner continued the stunningly successful development of his “Forward Look” with fins and a bold grille that filled the front of the car . This would remain both the 300 and Exner’s trademarks for five 300 model years.The 300-C again won The Flying Mile at Daytona, making it the fastest American car for the third straight year in Class 7. Along with excellent engineering and record setting performance, the 300-C had a high luxury level, including standard leather seats, making these the most desirable cars in Chrysler’s line up, and a powerful “Halo” car drawing customers into Chrysler showrooms.Despite a sticker price higher than most US Luxury Cars, sales were strong.Production of 1,767 Coupes; 484 ConvertiblesAvailable, for the first time for Chrysler Corporation cars was electronic fuel injection, which added another 10 horses to the base motor. This system, although ahead of its time, proved unreliable with the electronics then available. Most of the 21 300-Ds built with the system were recalled and retrofitted with the stock 2 4-barrel carburetors. The TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic was continued from 1957. The 2 known 300-Ds, with manual transmissions, were carburetor equipped.Styling was little changed for 1958. Why mess with a good thing?During Proving Grounds testing, Chrysler found that Exner’s “Forward jutting” chrome ”eyebrow” header on top of the front windscreen cost 5 mph in top speed. So in a massive tooling change, the convertible’s compound curved type “bubble windshield” was adopted on all models to become 1958’s biggest body change.Other main changes included taillights that were shorter and did not reach the top of the fin; wheel covers with the 300 medallions; and redesigned leather interior patterns.Performance was still world class and best demonstrated when a modified 300-D was driven to a new Class E record of 156.387 at the Bonneville Salt Flats. However, production was down, and the Hemi would disappear in the next model year.Production: 619 Coupes; 191 ConvertiblesThe exterior was similar to the previous year, with the most significant changes being the use of narrow red horizontal bars, highlighted by 4 aluminum bars in place of the last year’s egg crate grill. The rear bumper and tail lights were updated considerably from the ’57/58’ styling. The side 300 emblems were moved from behind, to in front, of the rear tire. Inside the car, swivel front seats were standard, finished in perforated leather upholstery embossed in a basket weave pattern. This allowed the circulation of air in warm weather. The seats could swivel through a 60 degree angle to ease entry and exit from the car. The 392 Hemi carried over from 1957, as did the majority of styling with upgrades to interior and ornamentation. The engine received another horsepower bump to 380. This was accomplished through 10.0:1 compression, new camshaft, and piston modifications. The big news for the 300-E was the introduction of the new “Golden Lion” V8 that replaced the tried and true Hemi. This engine had a wedge-shaped combustion chamber, 413 ci displacement and was lighter and less expensive than the 392 it was replacing. The 2 4-barrel carbs remained, and compression was slightly higher (10.1:1 vs. 10.0:1). Horsepower was unchanged, but torque was up from 1958 with the new engine. The 3-speed TorqueFlite transmission was the only transmission offered. The tires remained the same 9.00 X 14 Goodyear Bluestreak Nylons as in the previous two years. However, it was not all good news. With the loss of the hemi, came the loss of sales as production reached a low that would not be seen again until 1963.Production: 550 Coupes; 140 ConvertiblesThird Generation: 1960-1962All the new 1960 Chryslers looked different from their predecessors. They truly were different as the corporation adopted uni-body construction techniques for all its full size cars except the Imperial line. So the 300-F would be the first 300 to lack a traditional ladder frame underneath it.The 300-F adopted an elegant styling adding even more beauty to the powerful 300 beasts. The tail fins were now canted out and ended in a point. Up front, there was a spectacular, yet tastefully simple, grille with just two thin chrome bars intersecting at the grille’s center adorned with a red, white and blue 300-F medallion.Matching the elegant exterior, the 300-F’s leather interior featured four individual bucket seats with a center console running the length of the cockpit between them. The “Astradome” instrumentation put a 150 mph speedometer and gauges under a large, clear plastic dome.The 413 ci wedge continued to take the place of the old hemi, but it was improved for 1960. In standard trim, it was good for 375 hp, but optional goodies could bring out 400 ponies from this motor. “Ram Induction” was used with a new, and completely unique, “Cross Ram” manifold placing 4-barrel carbs on opposing sides of the engine. The design provided a “supercharging” effect in the heart of the rpm range. Low range performance was helped with the design, but at some cost of performance in the higher ranges.To solve that problem, engineers removed a section of the inner walls to create the 400 hp versions. Externally, the 30 inch “short rams” looked similar to the 30 inch “long rams”, but the internal runners were in effect half the length. At least 8 of these “short ram” cars were built, mostly for Daytona or Flying Mile racecars that were dubbed “Gran Turismos.” Six of them captured the first 6 places at the Flying Mile event, with speeds ranging from 140 mph-145 mph. Four of the 8 still exist and are among the most rare of the post war collectable cars.The “short ram” option also included the French made Pont-a-Mousson 4-speed manual transmission, which was made for the Facel Vega, a Chrysler powered French luxury car. The standard “long ram” 375 hp engines received the 3-speed automatic. The car was lightened with the use of uni-body construction, which also helped performance.Production: 964 Coupes; 248 ConvertiblesBoth engine variations were continued from 1960, but the standard axle for ’61 was changed from 3.31:1 to 3.23:1 ratio giving the 300-G a higher top speed potential than the 300-F. The high output engine also received a heavy duty Chrysler 3-speed transmission replacing the more expensive 4-speed French unit. The standard engine was available with either the 3-speed automatic or the 3-speed manual transmission.Other performance enhancements included stiffer torsion bars, 60 inch leaf springs that were stiffer than standard, and 8.00 x 15 inch Goodyear Blue Streak Nylon white sidewall tires.An alternator was standard, replacing the generator of previous models.A GT 300-G won the Daytona Flying Mile and a stock 300-G won the One Mile Acceleration Run.Production: 1,280 Coupes; 337 Convertibles This would be the last year for Virgil Exner’s fins. A major exterior redesign gave the 300-G a new, inverted grille shape and canted headlights. The taillights were moved down from the fins to just above the rear bumper. Numerous options, available in 1960, were again available including A/C, remote control outside mirror, six-way power seats, power door locks, and the “Sure-Grip” differential.
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Article which appeared in Hemmings Magazine in June of 2013 by Mathew Litman.
This well-written article makes a case that the 1st true Muscle car was a Chrysler 300.Historical significance and historical fact should never be confused.
Thank you Mathew! I think your "Right On"
For instance, the 1964 Pontiac GTO was historically significant in that it spawned the boom of what became known as the American muscle car.
When the muscle car as we know it was actually conceived and introduced to consumers is a detail that's long been debated. Those who argue their case beyond the '64 line of demarcation often point to the late Fifties and early Sixties, which gave rise to fuel injection, superchargers and multi-carbureted big-blocks among Detroit's manufacturers, and those beyond, to say nothing of the concurrently developed fleet of venerable and surprisingly powerful small-blocks.
Although the post-'57 letter cars were no longer eligible for circle track racing, the 300G was still a muscle car to be reckoned with in street trim, thanks to performance equipment that not only sounded good--413 cubic inches; Cross-Ram; dual four-barrels--but backed it up with 375 or an optional 400 horsepower and a 0-60 MPH time of 8.2 seconds (Motor Life, April 1961). Though not the fastest time turned by contemporary road test periodicals, it occurred during a period when most full-size cars could barely achieve 60 MPH in less than 10 or 11 seconds while simultaneously maintaining an air of luxury.
Along with other Chrysler letter cars, 1961's 300G is today an alternative Mopar performance car that is respected for its stunning combination of power and styling, bolstered by low production numbers--1,280 hardtops; 337 convertibles--for those who like to add rarity to their performance figures.
ENGINES.Chrysler engineers specified a 413-cu in wedge to go under the hood of every 300G. Introduced into the RB-Series of V-8s in 1959, the 413 was bestowed with 4.18-inch bores filled with pistons that traveled 3.75 inches courtesy of a forged steel crankshaft; compression was advertised as 10.1:1, thanks in part to the cylinder heads, which also featured 2.08/1.60-inch intake/exhaust valves; a .430-inch lift, 268-degree camshaft dictated valve action. Also included was a pair of Carter AFB four-barrel carburetors. There were, however, two versions of the 413 installed, which were differentiated by the intake manifolds.
Referred to as Ram Induction and initially appearing in 1960, the elongated aluminum intakes were designed based on much older principals involving resonance and its effect on a compression wave of, in this case, a fuel/air mixture.
Intake tube length had a direct effect on the timing of the fuel delivery, or ramming, into each cylinder bore, maximizing engine output at certain RPM ranges.
TRANSMISSIONS
Backing either engine was the already durable 727 TorqueFlite automatic, which was issued as standard equipment. Like other Chryslers of the day, the three-speed unit was shifted via pushbutton on the dash; it contained first and second gear ratios of 2.45:1 and 1.45:1, respectively.
Replacing the French-made four-speed on the option chart was a floor-shifted three-speed manual, which is a relative rarity today. First and second gear ratios were 2.55:1 and 1.49:1, respectively; the two gears were not synchronized, making for some uncomfortable downshifts for the uninitiated. Furthermore, contemporary road tests complained of a long second-to-third gate while hinting that the better performer in transferring torque to the differential was the TorqueFlite.
DIFFERENTIAL
The final transfer point for the torque from either engine was a standard 8¾-inch open differential with semi-floating axles and a 3.23:1 final drive ratio, although some printed material suggests that a 3.15:1 ratio was employed when the three-speed manual was installed. While this unit was known for its durability, dealers were also able to provide a number of more highway-friendly or performance-oriented ratios, even if the optional Sure-Grip (positive traction) unit was installed on the assembly line.
Contemporary magazines reported an average MPG rating of nine to 13 with a three-speed/3.23 arrangement, yet in terms of power off the line, both Motor Trend (8.3-second 0-60 MPH) and Motor Life (8.2 seconds) stated that the 300G had more acceleration potential waiting to be unleashed if geared accordingly.
CHASSISEach 300G hardtop and convertible was derived from the New Yorker, which meant they shared the same basic unit-body/subframe platform and 126-inch wheelbase; however, the similarities were limited beyond that. For instance, though an independent front torsion bar suspension system was used, the 44 x 1.08-inch torsion bars were thicker and 40 percent stiffer than those on other Chryslers, rated for 175-lbs in. The same can be said of the rear semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, rated for 135-lbs in (or 50 percent stiffer) than those on the New Yorker. For reference, the rear springs were comprised of seven leaves, measuring 60 x 2.50 inches. Power steering, with its 15.7:1 gear ratio, was also standard equipment, as were heavy-duty shocks.
In short, the chassis was engineered and better suited for high-speed highway travel and maneuverability rather than a short drive across the city. It can also handle short, quarter-mile blasts if, as discussed, geared accordingly.
BRAKES
Although equipment upgrades were made in other areas, the hydraulic drum-brake system was the same as found in the New Yorker series. This means that 12 x 2.50-inch drums were utilized at each corner. Power assist was standard, so stopping the roughly 4,200-pound performer will be easier; however, as with other drum-brake systems, each corner needs to be adjusted equally to prevent directional pull during sudden stops. Additionally, Chrysler employed two wheel cylinders per front assembly--a fact to keep in mind when seeking replacement parts.
WHEELS & TIRES
Unlike the previous 300F, the new 300G was bestowed with larger 15 x 6-inch pressed-steel wheels, which were then shod with 8.00-15 Goodyear Blue Streak "racing-type" tires that featured white sidewalls. Vented "300" wheel covers completed the ensemble; no options were available.
BODY & INTERIOR
Styling updates made to the 1961 Chryslers, including the 300G, probably did more to generate higher sales than printed virtues touting the fleet's combination of power and comfort, marking the end of Virgil Exner's "Flight Sweep designs."
The changes began with a complete revamp of the front end, where the grille was simply inverted. The top-to-bottom inward canted grille sides were harmoniously complemented by equally canted quad headlamps, running lamps and bumper ends, while also matching the angle of the rear fins--which were also slightly redesigned.
At the opposite end, the faux spare tire deck lid inlay was scrapped, providing a cleaner expanse of sleek sheet metal. Badging denoting the letter "G let the world know you had the latest 300 Letter car from Chrysler." The greenhouse and rear fenders were styling from 1960, with the exception of the leading edge of the fins found on each door.
Interiors remained exquisitely plush. A full-length, front-to-rear tunneled center console divided the interior in two, creating four truly individual buckets seats wrapped in ventilated leather. Those front seats retained the swivel feature, making for easy ingress/egress, while the console was trimmed with ample amounts of chrome and padded armrests that flipped open to expose additional storage areas. The console also housed optional power window controls, ashtrays and a tachometer.
Primary instruments resided in a dome-like, easy-to-read bubble; potential glare concerns were eliminated by means of a matching padded dash arch. The transmission's pushbutton controls resided to the left of the instrument cluster, balanced by radio, heat and air controls to the right. Comfort and convenience options included power seats, power antenna, rear window defroster and air conditioning.
The car is for sale locally in South Floridaand we reserve the right to cancel this auction at any time before the end of the auction. We do not have a Buy It Now Price listed. If you wish to discuss the lowest acceptable price...PLEASE...DO NOT write us and say "What is your lowest price?"
Instead, call us at954-873-6495and we will be happy to discuss that with you.
The car will be made available for inspection by serious bidders throughout the auction. The car is garage kept in Pompano Beach,FL
Please e-mail us if you would like to see the car. If you prefer, we can arrange to have a qualified, independent,professional mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection for you (at your expense).
PLEASE NOTE THAT WE WILL NOT ACCEPT PAYPAL AS A FORM OF PAYMENT. THIS IS TRUE FOR BOTH THE INITIAL DEPOSIT AS WELL AS THE FINAL PAYMENT.
This 1961Chrysler 300Gdraws a crowdof admirers,turns heads &causes a sensation whereverit'sshown ordriven!
Shipping: If you need help shipping this car in the U.S. or anywhere else in this world, I will be happy to put you in direct contact with Mary Olsonwho has been our sole shipping person for not only us, but for several of my friends who own car museums.She is honest, reliable, dependable and gives great personal service. She has arranged shippingfor myself and several of my friends of more than 3000 cars over the past 10 years.Twenty First Century Auctions has been selling fine Late model sports cars, vintage and collectible carson EBAYMOTORS since March of 2000 and we have a 100% feedback rating.Even in this very tough economic times where real estate has tumbled down a very steep hill....vintage cars...the real ones...the pedigreed cars in great restored or near perfect original condition continue to hold value and in most instances appreciate.
Invest your money in something you just don't "Put in the Bank" but something you can "Drive to the bankand anywhere else you might choose to do with your family & friends."Why not have fun with your money? ...enjoy your life and know that when you wake up in the morningyour dollars are still safe in your garage or warehouse and haven't evaporated into thin air!
Car collecting is a family thing...everyone around the world admires and loves these great vintage and collectible cars.We have sold cars fromAustraliatoAlaska...FromChinatoSaudi Arabia.....FromManhattantoMoscow....and the hobby keeps growing & expanding all the time.Collector car insurance is dirt cheap...about $250-$300 a year for a quality collectible, but due to this car's high value,probably $500-$600 annually. like this. and you can buy full coverage!They usually require a garage and not more than 2500-3000miles a year put on the car.I recommend you only buy a car like this if you have a garage to keep it in.I always try and look for major flaws and mention them and try to point them out when I see something. If you call me I will go over the car with youin great detail...both inside and out. The couple of tiny flaws are too miniscule to show up in photos...but I'll be happy to point them out.Your welcome to come in person to inspect this car for yourself...hire anyone you like to come on your behalf....bring your Experts and magnifying glasses........see if you can find anything really negative worth mentioning...we tried and couldn't find anything other than what we stated in the description...maybe you can?We have tried diligently to find any MAJOR flaws in the paint, body, interior, mechanical or electrical systemsand have not been able to locate anything that we could list as a MAJOR problem in the description or that we haven't already mentioned.
I truly believe there is NO such thing as a "PERFECT" old car or even a late model car that has been driven,WE ARE NOT making such a claim.....but this car comes close to perfection...ESPECIALLY when you consider it is 55 Years Old !
We are urging you toPLEASEcome and inspect the car in person, drive it or to hire an expert inspector to do this for you.AGAIN....Please do not ask us to recommend anyone....we want you to select & hire your own inspector.
If you wish to schedule an appointment to see this car, please call me at954-873-6495....We would appreciate at least a 1-2 day notice.It is currently being stored inan air-conditioned facility in Pompano Beach,FLIt is started anddriven a few mileson occasionif it's a beautiful SUNNY day and allowed to warm up,possiblyonce a week.
This car is owned free and clear. After you speak with us on the phone, it is possible to have a scanned copy sent directly to you.
We know this is a Platinum investment collectable car..this is a car that you can still drive & enjoy and will increase in value...not decrease in value.....and if you chose to...you could drive it every day.We feel very strongly that a car like this will not only hold its value but in years to come will continue to appreciate.
Please don't buy a Museum quality car like this unless you have a garage to store it inside.We do notbelieve this carhas ever been left outside.
You can look at this car in bright outdoor sunlight or indoors under halogen or florescent light...it still looks spectacular....but don't take our word...PLEASE...come and check it out yourself.We don't like surprises.Our goal not's to give you any....this is a NO DISAPPOINTMENTRARE CHRYSLER 300G SPORT HARDTOP.
THERE WAS NO FINER COLLECTABLE CLASSIC BUILT IN THE U.S. IN 1961!
We don't "play games" We love when a car is inspected prior to meeting the reserve.We have no secrets and are proud of our 100% feedback rating...we have been selling great cars like this formore than16 years onEbaymotors.com.Nearly 1/3 of a billion dollars in collectable cars thru Ebaymotors.comPlease call us at954-873-6495....even if your calling fromAustralia,Europe orJapan.We will not e-mail you the reserve but will discuss it with you on the phone!
We are all car guys that are very easy to speak with...no Prima Donnas at this end...just car loversthat do this for the fun and passion of loving our hobby...for the past 56 years!
We really do love the cars...a lot more than the $.
Once you speak with us...you'll agree...we are sincere and dedicated to this eternal love affair with the automobile
The reserve is set at a very, very fair number...if you wish to discuss the amountplease don't write and ask "What is the reserve price"
As with all of our fine cars...we invite your and urge your personal inspection. If you see it....and drive it...you will buy it!SHIPPING: Many of my friends and fellow collectors have shipped literally 1000's of cars over the past many years...all with a great Lady named Mary Olson who owns Crossroads Transport...We will be happy to give you her e-mail & telephone
You can contact Mary on a direct basis with Mary and she can handle any shipping needs...this car should be shipped ENCLOSED!
OUT-OF-THE-USA SHIPPING: Over the past 50 yearswe have shipped cars to more than 40 countries...We can put you in contact with the right people who will give you great service at a fair price.
For financing...trywww.jjbest.comorwww.woodsidecredit.comIf you have a trade...please e-mail us atluvdg@aol.coma complete set of photos....details and a phone number.Also, we have contact with shippers throughout theU.S.and WORLDWIDE...We will be happy to assist you.WHAT ABOUT A TRADE?We will only accept cars of the quality, correctness and authenticity that we sellWe will consider any nice vintage or antique car or late model Luxury car with a clean CARFAX & CARCHECK report.Please call us first and discuss this with us..and if we have an interest,we would then have you e-mail a complete set of photos and details.E-MAIL the photos of your trade or trades toluvdg@aol.comThanks and best of luck!Please write or call for more details....IfEBay Recommended Services:History Report - get a vehicle history report and protect yourself from hidden problemsShipping - get free shipping quotes and information on options to pick up the vehicleFinancing - learn about choicesBuyer Checklist - review steps to take to make a safe, successful purchase
AS IS - NO WARRANTYThis vehicle is being sold as is, where is with no warranty, expressed written or implied.The seller shall not be responsible for the correct description, authenticity, genuineness, or defects herein,and makes no warranty in connection therewith. No allowance or set aside will be made on account of any incorrectness,imperfection, defect or damage. Any descriptions or representations are for identification purposes only and are notto be construed as a warranty of any type. It is the responsibility of the buyer to have thoroughly inspected the vehicle,and to have satisfied himself or herself as to the condition and value and to bid based upon that judgement solely.The seller shall and will make every reasonable effort to disclose any known defects associated with this vehicleat the buyer's request prior to the close of sale. Seller assumes no responsibility for any repairs regardless of any oralstatements about the vehicle.
There is no such thing as a "PERFECT" car...especially when dealing with vintage cars that are 25,35 and even 50 years old.Arranging for an independent third-party inspection is a great way to validate a seller's claims about a vehicle's condition.There are many companies and individuals who offer such a service. Of course your personal inspection and scrutinyare suggested and most welcomed.
The seller has made a diligent effort to accurately describe this vehicle but does not expressly or implicitly guaranteethe accuracy of the above description.Bidders and prospective purchasers are urged and cautioned to conduct their own due diligence, including a physicalinspection in person or through a qualified third party inspector or appraiser, before contemplating a purchase or makinga bid on this vehicle.In fact, we would welcome and encourage such an inspection, and will make every effort to makethe above described vehicle available at a time convenient to the perspective purchaser or their agentsWe charge NO fees of any type. NONE!
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We are not interested in simply making a sale...we want tomake you a customer...that is why we have 100% feedback for 16 straight years!