Here’s a very impressive piece of machinery in the form of a 1965 Chrysler 300 convertible. There’s an important distinction here as this is not a famed “letter” car, just a regular 300 but it still has a lot going for it, especially considering that the top goes up and down. This 300 is located in Hillsboro, Oregon and is available, here on craigslist for $12,000. Thanks to MattR for this discovery!
Whereas the 300 letter series high-performance variant came into being in 1955, the non-letter 300, such as this convertible, first saw the light of day in 1962 and continued through the ’71 model year. The marketing push behind the non-lettered 300 was to provide a car with sporting intentions but at a lower price point for a letter car, which in ’65 was the 300L. Body styles for the standard 300 included two-door hardtops and convertibles and a four-door hardtop. Our subject car is fairly rare, according to the “1962-1965 Mopar” website, approximately 27K 300’s were built in ’65 but only 1,418 were convertibles. As a point of comparison, 2,845 300 L’s were assembled that year with just 440 being the convertible body style.
With a recorded, not claimed, mileage of 51K miles, this long and low convertible presents very well. There’s no condition description accompanying the listing but the body is straight, the finish is strong, the trim is intact, the fabric top looks good and there’s no sign of rust. Judging from a painted-over door latch on the passenger side door jamb, it’s a safe bet this 300 has been treated to a refinishing at some point in its past.
Under the plateau-like hood is a 315 gross HP, 383 CI V8 engine – the standard 300 powerplant. Connected to a TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission, the seller states, “Car is really comfortable and a lot of fun to drive“. Added is the inclusion of, “new Kyb shocks, battery and brakes front/rear & master cylinder, heater core“.
The interior is not quite up to the same level of condition as the exterior though it still looks inviting. The main issues are the ripped bucket seat upholstery, faded carpet, and wrinkling upholstery panels – nothing really major, just noted detractions. Of note, this 300 has an optional center console, and typical for convertibles of this era, it is not A/C equipped.
As far as full-size domestic convertibles go, you’ll never get an argument from me about them, I believe they are a great alternative to over-priced muscle cars, especially when they have a lot of get-up-and-go like this 300. The seller states, “She is ready for a new home“. Unfortunate for him, but an opportunity for a new caretaker to experience a little wind in their hair and a bit of “Yes, I do own the road” braggadocio, right?
I’d have to imagine that the car would have come with a 4 barrel carb, being that it’s an upscale 300 model. This car looks like and awesome example of a ’65 C-body. I’m sure Elwood Engel would be proud.
Four barrel it is.
JO
Very sweet. Love the interior. This was well taken care of for its 56 years…383 would move it pretty well too.
Wow, this one checks all my Buy it NOW boxes! Very straight, very original, great first year Mopar C body lines, buckets and console…… it looks like you could actually put a key in this thing and enjoy it right away(?!) AND It’s a convertible! I don’t think I’ve seen a better overall value quite like this on BAT. How could this car still be available after nine days? Unless there is something unsaid or unseen this one should be selling………
Boy, I’m going to have to show some restraint…….. I want it……..
Maybe it’s the time of year. People too busy with the holidays, but this looks like a great car for a great price. Wrong coast for me, but I agree with your thinking.
Posted 10 days ago and still available. What’s up with that?
“I got me a Chrsyler as big as Whale “
My ’65 NYer.
Wow what a very clean survivor and very fairly priced. It will be gone fast. Ford and Chevrolets and Mercury are only models I’ve worked on and restored. Never tackled a Mopar before, but this one looks like a winner.
I think the 1965 Mopar full-size cars were the best design to come out of Chrysler. I love the fuselage body!
If you put a ’65 next to a ’66, I’d go with the ’65. I remember seeing one the same color, in Bristol, NH. He’d either have the garage door open for all to see, or parked in the driveway.
If it was a 64 I would grab it That 65 though is a very well preserved Chrysler
God the body is so straight as is, and I’m just loving that interior with buckets and console as well. Someone’s gonna be thrilled to have this girl in their driveway or shop. Great find guys.
I always like the ’65-’68 Chrysler products. Even better when the top goes down. This looks like a reasonably priced, solid example.
Volo auto museum had one for sale a few years ago for 1.5 times this asking price. Theirs was blue with white interior (opposite of this), with a 3 on the tree. I wanted it bad, but I like this one just as much!