The Chrysler 300M 2.7i V6 24V, produced from 1998 to 2004, represented a significant departure for Chrysler, moving towards a more modern, internationally-influenced design. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the 300M lineup, it served as a more accessible entry point compared to the higher-performance variants. The 300M, built on Chrysler’s LH platform, aimed to compete with import sedans, offering a blend of American comfort and European handling characteristics. This particular 2.7-liter V6 and four-speed automatic transmission combination was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and a smooth driving experience over outright speed.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | 300M |
| Generation | 300M |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 i V6 24V (203 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 160.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 203 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 258 Nm @ 4850 rpm (190.29 lb.-ft. @ 4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EER |
| Engine displacement | 2736 cm3 (166.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.5 mm (3.09 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 475 l (16.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 5000 mm (196.85 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2870 mm (112.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 300M 2.7i is the Chrysler EER engine, a 60-degree V6. This engine utilized a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, a common configuration for balancing durability and weight. The 2.7-liter displacement was achieved with a 86mm bore and 78.5mm stroke. The engine featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high output for its size. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for improved efficiency and emissions. The four-speed automatic transmission, a Chrysler 42RE unit, was chosen for its smooth operation and suitability for everyday driving. This transmission featured electronic control for optimized shift points and responsiveness. While not a performance-oriented transmission, it was known for its reliability and ease of maintenance.
Driving Characteristics
The 300M 2.7i offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. With 203 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, acceleration was adequate for most driving situations, achieving 0-60 mph in around 9.7 seconds. However, it wasn’t designed for spirited driving. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and smooth cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the 3.5-liter V6 or the higher-performance variants, the 2.7-liter felt noticeably less powerful, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but lacked the dynamic capabilities of rear-wheel-drive alternatives. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a stable ride, but at the expense of sharp handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 300M 2.7i typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Safety features included ABS brakes and dual front airbags. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, and alloy wheels. The interior design was generally considered spacious and well-appointed for its price point, although the materials weren’t as luxurious as those found in higher-end trims. The dashboard layout was straightforward and functional, with easy-to-read gauges and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The 300M utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent front suspension featuring spring struts and a double wishbone rear suspension. This setup aimed to balance ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering system employed a rack-and-pinion setup, providing responsive and precise steering feel. The 300M’s chassis was designed to provide a stable and comfortable ride, prioritizing isolation from road imperfections over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chrysler 300M 2.7i was generally well-received by critics as a comfortable and practical sedan. However, its performance was often criticized as being underwhelming compared to some of its competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to the 3.5-liter V6 version of the 300M, the 2.7-liter offered a lower price point and slightly better fuel economy, but at the cost of significant performance. The 2.7-liter appealed to buyers who prioritized value and practicality over outright speed and driving excitement. It was often seen as a sensible choice for commuters and families.
Legacy
The Chrysler 300M 2.7i powertrain proved to be relatively reliable, with the 42RE automatic transmission being a particularly durable component. However, like many Chrysler products of this era, the engine was susceptible to oil leaks and timing chain issues if not properly maintained. Today, the 300M 2.7i can be found on the used car market at very affordable prices. While it may not be a collector’s item, it remains a viable option for those seeking a comfortable and inexpensive sedan. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively low, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers. The 300M, in general, marked a turning point for Chrysler, signaling a move towards more modern design and engineering principles.
