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The 1959 300E convertible is one of the most rare and sought-after classic cars. There were only 140 units produced, and this striking example is one of only 27 survivors known to the Chrysler 300 International Club.
Virgil Exner’s Forward Look design language from the 1957 and 1958 300-letter series cars was carried over for the 1959-only 300E, with exterior modifications including a revised rear bumper and taillights as well as 300E medallions mounted ahead of the rear wheels. And then there was the ’59-only 300E trademark front grill painted in bright red.
The 300E rode on a 126″ wheelbase and featured torsion-bar front suspension. Power-assisted steering and brakes were standard equipment.
The 413 cu in Golden Lion V8 was introduced for 1959 and featured a wedge-shaped combustion chamber, 10.1:1 compression, and dual Carter four-barrel carburetors. Factory rated output was 380 horsepower at 5,000 rpm.
Power was sent to the rear wheels via a push-button TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission and a Sure-Grip Positraction differential.
Additional features included reverse lights, a driver-side mirror and a 300 badge mounted on the left side of the grille.
The epitome of the late ‘50s Detroit greatness, style and power, the 1959 300E was among the least-produced letter cars making it, in many ways, among the most unusual of the letter car franchise. In its day, it was what every speed aficionado desired, with a claim of up to 140 mph.
This historical timepiece received a body-on restoration in 2014 with the body taken down to the bare metal. Otherwise, there are no modifications, and the engine and interior are original.
During restoration, this rare 300E received a repaint in Persian White, and the exterior brightwork was re-chromed.
The cabin offers swiveling modesty front bucket seats with a power-adjustable driver’s seat trimmed in tan leather with embossed Golden Lion logos, along with a matching rear bench and door panels.
Features include power windows, engine-turned dash trim, heater, dash-mounted rearview mirror, AM radio, front-folding armrest and black carpets.
The two-spoke steering wheel with a chrome horn ring frames a 150-mph speedometer and a combination gauge. The clock does not work. The five-digit odometer was reset during the restoration and shows 4,600 miles. Total mileage is unknown.
The original saddle tan leather upholstery is clean, yet the patina is still present, striking a pleasing balance of trophy clean with character.
The tan soft top features a plastic rear window and is stowed under a matching vinyl top boot.
Fifteen-inch factory wire wheels are mounted with 7.60-15 BF Goodrich Silvertown bias-ply whitewall tires. A spare wheel and tire are mounted in the trunk.
This historical timepiece has been lovingly maintained. There is no rust anywhere, and all the fluids were recently changed.
Starting from before the rear wheel wells, the fins make a statement understood by even the casual observer. This 1959 Chrysler 300E is an absolutely stunning design that lives up to the letter car iconic status in automotive history, both visually and performance-wise.
Some even say it symbolizes an entirely different era of American car manufacturing. Why not see for yourself?
