Chrysler 300M ($28,490) comes standard with the usual complement of power accessories; automatic climate control; and "Royale" leather seats with eight-way power, memory, and a manual lumbar adjustment. Standard performance goodies include a high-output 3.5-liter V6, four-speed AutoStick transmission, and Michelin P225/55R17 all-season touring tires. An optional performance handling group ($560) upgrades the suspension, steering, and brakes, and switches to P225/55R17 all-season performance tires. You can also opt for a power moonroof ($895), chrome wheels ($750), or a premium 360-watt stereo system ($390) with a six-disc in-dash changer (up from four discs last year) and nine Infinity speakers. 300M Special ($32,015) delivers more driving thrills thanks to a higher-output version of the high-output 3.5-liter V6. It's rated at 255 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque at 3950 rpm, 5 more horsepower and 8 more pounds-feet than the standard 300M V6. The 300M Special attacks the curves with a stiffer suspension, firmer strut damping, and taller rear jounce bumpers. Eighteen-inch wheels and 245/45ZR18 Michelin Pilot Sport tires aid grip, while stiffer brake calipers and outboard-vented rotors assure swift stops. A firm-feel steering gear enhances on-center response. Chrysler says one-third of 300M buyers opt for the Special.
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