The ’61 Chrysler 300G is, without a doubt, a blue-chip collectible. The Forward Look era was winding down, and the 1961 model’s dramatic fins would soon be clipped. With those distinctive canted headlights and a Ram-Induction 413, however, this is a tempting piece of Jet Age history.
The hallmark of any Virgil Exner-designed Chrysler product is the fins, and the fins on the ’61 were among the wildest. This 300G looks gorgeous in black, and there’s just the right amount of bright trim to augment the jet-like styling. The seller says that the paint is original.
Aside from the styling, the most exciting thing about the 300G is the engine. With two Carter AFBs mounted on separate long-runner intake manifolds designed for midrange power, the engine compartment is as dramatic as the exterior. The 300 was rated at 375 horsepower at 5000 rpm (with an optional 400-horsepower version). Backed by a Torqueflite transmission, this robust powertrain is one of song and legend.
The interior is equally flashy, with a striking dome speedometer, stacked gauges, and push-button themed controls. This is a dazzling dashboard with a 150-mph speedometer that probably doesn’t exaggerate too much.
The rear bucket seats even have their own console. The interior is said to be original, and there are some imperfections to address if somebody wants to take this car to the next level, but the car seems complete and ready to drive.
The seller includes a couple pictures of spare parts that presumably come with the car, including a steering box. There is no mention in the ad if the steering box is immediately needed.
The trunk may need a new mat, but the seller claims that the 300 is rust free, so there should be nothing but solid metal underneath that mat. The seller also says that ignition and fuel system maintenance has been completed, including a carburetor adjustment. They also believe that the powertrain has been rebuilt at some point.
Only 1,280 300G hardtops were built in 1961, so this is a rare and powerful example of one of Exner’s best. It’s currently for sale on Marketplace for $25,000. Thanks to T.J. for the tip!
wow. what a beauty. shouldn’t last long at that price…
✔️✔️✔️
I’ve always loved the look of the 61 Chryslers. My father had two. Initially a 4 door hardtop, white with a red roof. While parked in our driveway, I would just sit in it and pretend staring at that dome. But it was stolen from a NYC parking garage while my parents were seeing a play.
Eventually, he picked up a Newport convertible that needed too much work. Ha
Reminds me of the Beach Boy’s “Shutdown”.
I thought one of these was on the album cover, but Google shows me it’s actually a GTO. (Still, I think I’ve seen a picture with the Beach Boys gathered around one of these somewhere.)
When was the last time you saw a red, white & blue emblem on an American car?
Disgraceful what American manufacturers have become. Especially now that they sell world wide.
It wouldn’t hurt for China to see red, white & blue on imported cars. (Technically American cars made in China, i.e. Cadillac, Buick)
We looked at a Buick Envision when they came out,window sticker said Made in China.
@ Michael
Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
You have to say it like that one guy
CHINA CHINA 😂
Sweet. Seems like a good deal. I miss the days when automobiles had distinct styling. Just one glance at the dashboard and you know it’s a Mopar. GLWTS.
Exactly right! I love everything about that dash. Brings back some good memories.
I don’t know what “Chrysler” even means anymore….isn’t the only Chrysler-badged vehicle a van of some sort?
@ Todd
Chrysler Corp (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep)
Was bought up by Stellantis.
The only Chrysler left is a minivan. Although they are working on a few future cars.
Dodge has the Charger, Challenger & Hornet. The Charger is supposed to come out with an EV 2 Dr. Not sure if the Challenger is still with us. And Lord knows what’s going on with the Hornet.
Dodge Ram trucks was spun off to its own brand. Ram trucks.
Do I even dare comment on Jeep?
I am reminded of this SNL skit about American cars! Sad, but true!😖
https://youtu.be/W1jYDx4oS3A?si=KtFRYt31ol6gA9z0
Been a Buick man all my life and I had a few because I’m an old man ,but would never purchase a car made in China,no matter what,disgraceful
Absolutely, beautiful. Yeah, I’d like to know whether that steering box is needed at this point as well. Not a small job. The cross induction 413 is an engine of dreams to me. Two door hardtops like this one make it even sweeter. That interior, is Jet age inspired for sure.
Too cheap…..looked at the ad and the way it reads…..has to be a scam.
I agree with Stillrunners, I think this is a scam, though the listing is now “unavailable”. I owned a 300G back in 2013, which had very low miles (52k) and ran, but needed full restoration. I sold it for $18,000, that was 11 years ago and the prices have only gone up.
Having said that, the 300G has a presence like no other car I’ve ever had, and I’ve had A LOT. It sort of…lurks…in your garage. There’s literally nothing subtle about it in any way shape or form. The engine sounds different than any other engine I’ve ever heard. Let the “banker’s hot rod” Riviera (which I’ve had and love) do it’s thing, this was the “CEO’s hot rod”.