Some consider Chrysler’s Letter-series coupes to be the first true muscle cars. They were a force on the NASCAR circuit from the moment the first 300A arrived in 1955. But Virgil Exner’s - opens in new window or tab. design and the power of the 413 engine made the 1961 300G the ultimate in full-size Chrysler performance and style. One of these rare models is recently for sale on eBay.
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One of 1,280
This 300G is one of just 1,280 hardtops produced for 1961. Exner pulled out all the stops with the 300G, one of the last designs of the era. Notable Exner cues include angled quad headlights and prominent fins that start midway through the doors and rise dramatically rearward. Long, low, and wide, the 300G looks fast even when standing still.
Under the hood is where the 300G really made news. A monster 413-cubic-inch wedge-head V-8 - opens in new window or tab. with the innovative Ram Induction intake manifold - opens in new window or tab. powered it. The long intake runners were tuned to produce torque—a whopping 495 pound-feet at 2,800 rpm. Horsepower peaked at 375 at 5,000 rpm.
The 413’s output propelled one of these big Chryslers to a winning average speed of 143 mph in the 1961 Daytona Flying Mile. This car retains its original Wedge engine, which is said to run well and have plenty of power.
Space Age Spirit
The 300G's original interior captures the spirit of the then-budding space age. Front bucket seats swivel for easier access. A full-length console runs back to matching rear buckets. Even details like the delicate chrome interior door handles are stylishly distinctive.
The star of the 300G's interior is the transparent Astra Dome housing the speedometer and other instrumentation. It’s flanked by shining chrome knobs and switches. Buttons to the left of the translucent steering wheel control the automatic transmission.
Based on the top-trim New Yorker, the 300G came from the factory loaded with luxurious features. This car is equipped with:
- Factory air conditioner
- Leather upholstery
- Power windows
- Power steering
- Power brakes
- Tinted glass
Well Cared For
Wearing Kentucky plates, this 300G has largely been spared the ravages of northern winters. It presents well overall with no notable dents or other damage. The paint retains a nice luster, and all the original chrome is in place and in good condition. The car was clearly well cared for over time.
The interior does show some wear, as can be seen in photos. It would benefit from a good cleaning. While this very special Chrysler looks great in photos and has great bones, there is evidence of rust underneath that will require attention. That is reflected in its asking price, which is substantially less than the sale price of other recent examples.
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