Before the Pontiac GTO, there was another muscle car, the Chrysler 300 “Letter Series”. Beginning in 1955, Chrysler started souping up full-size New Yorkers and came out with a limited annual run of hardtops (and later convertibles, too) that had nearly scorched earth speed capabilities (how about 143 mph?). The seller’s is a 1961 edition, the 300G, one of 1,280 coupes built that year. Since 1968, the engine and transmission have been rebuilt off the road, but some final assembly is required. Located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, this mostly solid project is available here on craigslist for $22,000. Another great Mopar tip brought to us the courtesy of Barn Finder T.J.!
Chrysler’s goal with the Letter Series cars was to combine luxury with performance – and the 300s delivered ample amounts of both. Beginning in 1956 with the 300B, each year’s car changed the letter of the alphabet, and by 1961 it was the 300G. Using slanted headlights for the first time, the ‘61s would have tailfins for the final outing. Only 1,617 copies were assembled overall that year and 80% of them were hardtops like the seller’s example. These mean machines were powered by a 413 cubic inch V8 with “cross-ram” carburetion.
This Chrysler may be on sale compliments of just its third owner. At 59,000 miles (maybe), this 300G was last registered for highway use 57 years ago The second owner rebuilt the hot engine and its 3-speed automatic transmission. But the dual carbs and new fuel tank were never installed and are waiting in the trunk for someone to do something with them. The latter hardware is hard to find and pricey. The red paint is original, and there is some rust on the vehicle, but it doesn’t seem to be challenging.
The seller has replaced much of the exterior brightwork with new or better chrome. This was a factory A/C car which shrinks the number of survivors available to restore. The interior will need some work, as well, and we suspect that most of everything you’d need to further the project is probably there. If you’ve been looking for one of these Mopars and don’t have six figures to buy one that has already been redone, could this be the one for you?
The last of the winged warriors, next came the “plucked chickens” or so they said. This would be an eye catching cruiser when restored. And with that cross ram 413 would pass about anything except the next gas station! There appears to be enough rust in that trunk to make is scary. Definitely recommend a personal visit, maybe take along someone experienced with body work and metal fabrication.
Love this year Mopar letter car. 413s were amazing. But for $22k, there is still a world of work to do before she’s running and driving again. Its a big deal to have the cross ram manifolds, but most modern mechanics wouldn’t have a clue of how to reassemble them I bet. Also nice that trans and engine were rebuilt, but sitting since 1968? That gives one some concern. If youre a seasoned mechanic putting this project back together may be for you.In any case she’s a real looker.
These are such cool cars, a buddy of mine here in Portsmouth Virginia has two of these, he just bought a 59 Caddy convertible so he wants to sell his 300G project for $5k. It had a fire and is missing a lot of parts, may be a good parts car.
I don’t have room for it or else I would be on the horn to the seller.
I know I focus way too much on power windows, but where are the buttons on this car?
On the console.
Thanks.
My Dad had a ’62 with the more plebeian 413. What a car!