For Sale: 1957 Chrysler 300C in Saint Louis, Missouri

Chrysler was on quite a roll in the 1950s. After many years of somewhat conservative engineer-driven design, the hiring of ex-Studebaker designer Virgil Exner did wonders to revive Chrysler's image. Drawing heavily from his experience working with Gigi Segre of Ghia on a series of Chrysler "Idea Cars," Exner's first production designs appeared in 1955 with the elegant Imperial. Such was Exner's influence, that when GM caught wind of his new "Forward Look" design proposal for 1957, they scrapped their entire future design language and started over. The Forward Look cars epitomized mid-century "jet age" styling with low, sleek profiles, dramatic tail fins and futuristic detailing.
As the Hemi V8 dominated the increasingly popular sport of NASCAR racing, Chrysler seized on the marketing opportunities, and the 300 "letter series" was born. Considered by many as a precursor to the muscle car, the 300 was a stylish luxury car packing a powerful, race-proven V8 engine. The 300 C of 1957 combined the muscular Hemi V8 with Exner's dramatic Forward Look styling to create an icon of the 1950s. With dual four-barrel carburetors on a unique intake manifold and a special cam, the 392 cubic-inch Hemi produced an incredible 375 horsepower. Impressively for a full-sized car, a 300 C hit 134 mph in the flying mile at Daytona and could do 0-60 in under 8 seconds. That performance came at a price, and limited production ensured exclusivity - just 2,402 were built, including a mere 484 convertibles, priced at a stout $5,359.
Looking splendid in its factory shade of Cloud White over Tan leather upholstery, this stunning 300 C convertible is the beneficiary of a superb, highly detailed specialist restoration. According to accompanying build records and the Chrysler 300 Club International, this car was completed on July 15, 1957, and sold new through H.W. Hunter Dodge/Chrysler of Lancaster, California. Appropriately for a top of the line 300 C, this Cloud White came loaded with options including a black soft top, power operated tinted windows, six-way power front leather seats, a Music Master radio, Goodyear Blue Streak tires, chrome wheel covers, power steering, and a heater. Factory records confirm it retains its original 392 Hemi V8 engine.
This car's known history picks up in the early 2000s, when it was acquired by Jim Miller of West Palm Beach Florida. Mr. Miller was a noted collector of rare, mid-century American classics, and he commissioned an extensive, highly detailed restoration with L'Cars Automotive Specialists of Bruce, Wisconsin, under the guidance of Bob Lorkowski. Completed in the mid-2010s, the car was extensively restored to original factory specifications. The quality shines in the details - with everything from the gold painted valve covers and air cleaners, to the rare factory hubcaps, and exquisitely finished interior reflecting the expertise of the restorers.
It is readily apparent that this 300 C has been very well maintained since its restoration, and it remains in superb condition, inside and out. The light tan interior is gorgeous, showing virtually no signs of use, the engine bay is exceptionally tidy, and the paint and bright work are excellent. With such rarity and style, it is a great example to show proudly at concours events, or perhaps enjoy on tours and rallies where its punchy 375 horsepower can be put to good use - you might even surprise a few sports cars as you go wafting past between corners! Representing the pinnacle of mid-century luxury and performance, few cars in its day could touch the 300 C, and today, great examples like this serve as the cornerstone of any significant muscle car or Americana collection.

Offers welcome and trades considered.