Chrysler 300C (2005-2011]

There have been some truly bizarre automotive collaborations in the past, but nothing compares to the peculiar alliance between Daimler Group and Chrysler which resulted in the 300C. It was a case of gangster rap meets swish Mercedesbenz sophistication in an unholy mix that seemed to raise eyebrows and create a certain amount of grotesque fascination in equal measure.

Unsurprisingly given its looks, it was an instant hit across the pond, but Chrysler’s decision to launch it in Europe seemed slightly more of a gamble. The cars were built on Chrysler’s behalf by Magna-steyr in Austria – in right-hand drive format, of course, for the

UK market with the first ones reaching showrooms in 2005. Initially there was a rather lack-lustre Mercderived 3.5-litre V6 petrol, a brutal 5.7-litre V8 ‘Hemi’ and probably the most relevant motor for our market at the time, a 3.0-litre CRD common rail diesel, also borrowed from Mercedes. Then, in 2006, the 425bhp 6.1-litre SRT-8 muscle car was added to the line-up, and at about the same time Chrysler launched the Touring estate version. In early 2008, the petrol V6 was dropped and an Srt-design variant was added to pep up the diesel offerings. There was a final facelift in 2011, just before the 300C morphed into the Lancia Thema.

So, is it really one to watch? Well, as an intriguing alternative to a Bentley or Mercedes, the 300C has lots going for it – not least the fact that you won’t have to pay much for one. Watch for inlet manifold issues on the 2005-2007 V6 diesels as well as crank position sensor faults. Otherwise buy with confidence.

You’ll pay the same for V6 petrol and diesel 300Cs, though we’d opt for the far better 3.0 CRD. You’ll pay £3000-£4000 for one of these. Hemi V8s are desirable but more of a specialist car, and these begin at £6000. The SRT-8 has its own unique following, hence why you’ll need to spend between £15,000-£18,000 for one.