The 1969-1971 Chrysler
300 2D Hardtop and Convertible were the final 300s with a direct line
to the 1955 original. Few could see their coming demise in 1969, when
Chrysler shifted to rounded "fuselage styling" that was marked by
bulged bodysides, diminished glass areas, and very obvious extra length
(up 5.5 inches overall). Wheelbases were again unchanged, however, and
curb weights were up, but fractionally despite the more massive
appearance.
The Chrysler Division thought one of its '69s would be "your next car," but sales were flat and would fall sharply through 1971. The 300s retained unique hidden-headlamp grilles that looked good within the big "loop" bumpers of these years. But though nameplates now read "Three Hundred," there was also writing on the wall.
The series was terminated after '71 due to continued buyer preference for the cheaper but only slightly less spartan Newports. (The start of new corporate difficulties didn't help.) The 300 convertible didn't last that long, and was canceled along with its Newport Custom sister after 1970.
Pluses of the 1969-1971 Chrysler 300 2D Hardtop & Convertible:
 ©2007 Publications International, Ltd. 1969 Chrysler 300 convertible. |
The Chrysler Division thought one of its '69s would be "your next car," but sales were flat and would fall sharply through 1971. The 300s retained unique hidden-headlamp grilles that looked good within the big "loop" bumpers of these years. But though nameplates now read "Three Hundred," there was also writing on the wall.
The series was terminated after '71 due to continued buyer preference for the cheaper but only slightly less spartan Newports. (The start of new corporate difficulties didn't help.) The 300 convertible didn't last that long, and was canceled along with its Newport Custom sister after 1970.
Pluses of the 1969-1971 Chrysler 300 2D Hardtop & Convertible:
- Smooth, effortless road cars
- Spacious interiors
- Huge trunks
- Becoming more collectible, especially the convertible
Minuses of the 1969-1971 Chrysler 300 2D Hardtop & Convertible:
- Debateable styling
- Assembly quality takes a big turn for the worse
- Didn't take turns like earlier 300s
- Collector interest still not high
Production of the 1969 Chrysler 300 2D Hardtop & Convertible:
2d htp, 16,075; conv, 1,933
Production of the 1970 Chrysler 300 2D Hardtop & Convertible:
2d htp, 9,583; conv, 1,077
Production of the 1971 Chrysler 300 2D Hardtop & Convertible:
2d htp, 7,256
Specifications of the 1969-1971 Chrysler 300 2D Hardtop & Convertible:
Length, inches: 224.7
Wheelbase, inches: 124.0
Weight, pounds: 3,965-4,246
Price, new: $4,105-$4,610 (U.S.)
Engines for the 1969-1971 Chrysler 300 2D Hardtop & Convertible:
| Type | Size | Horsepower | Years |
| ohv V-8 | 440 cid | 350/375 | 1969-1970 |
| ohv V-8 | 440 cid | 335/370 | 1971 |
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