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Does it make more sense to buy a 2023 Chrysler 300 or look for the used version of this full-size American sedan?
Time is Running Out for This Full-Size Sedan
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Every day it seems there is more bad news for fans of the sedan, an automotive segment that continues to decline under the popularity of crossovers and SUVs. It’s doubly bad for full-size sedans, so for those who still want one, don’t wait too long. If you are in that group, this new vs. used Chrysler 300 comparison should be right up your alley.
These days, the Chrysler 300 is one of the last of its kind, that kind being a rear-wheel drive big four-door with available V8 power. In fact, the 2023 model year is it. Like its Dodge Charger platform-mate its curtains as of 2024. Fortunately, Chrysler has prepared a fitting send-off by bringing back the thundering 6.4L V8 powertrain for a limited run of 2,000 units dubbed 300C.
Of course, you can also take advantage of depreciation and find yourself a second-hand 300, a car that has always offered a plenty potent 5.7L V8 engine option to go with a standard V6. Considering the 300 has been essentially unchanged since the second-gen lineup debuted in 2011, a comparison of a new vs used Chrysler 300 is a relatively apples-to-apples affair as we’ll look below.
Specs
We’re going to be comparing a shiny new 2023 Chrysler 300 against the 2020 model year, the latter of which shares a lot with the former. Both come standard with a 3.6L V6 making 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the 300S unlocks an extra 8 hp and 4 torques thanks in part to a sport-tuned exhaust system.
These V6-powered 300s are rated for 23 mpg combined on RWD models or 21 mpg with AWD, which is available only with the V6. Both model years also offer a 5.7L V8 that puts down 363 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque and manages 19 mpg combined.
Though Chrysler sold the 300 with a 6.4L V8 between 2012 and 2015, it’s been off the order books until 2023. This limited-edition spec, which has the nameplate 300C, boasts 485 hp and 475 torques. One cost of this heroic engine is the 18-mpg combined rating and need for premium fuel. Regardless of motor, every model in this new vs. used Chrysler 300 matchup works with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Driving and Performance
From a handling perspective, the new and used Chrysler 300s are tuned for long-haul comfort more than canyon carving. But RWD and a big V8 guarantee tail-happy oversteer antics whenever you like. You can also select AWD on V6 models if you want more traction. As for acceleration, the Pentastar V6 provides okay punch.
The 5.7L V8 is pleasantly quick, however, speed freaks will want the 6.4L V8 offered only on the 2023 Chrysler 300. The automaker says it will clear 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. It also sports 4-piston Brembo front brakes, adaptive dampers, and an active sport exhaust system.
Comfort and Interior
The Chrysler 300 has been for sale in its current form since 2011. As a result, the cabin looks dated whether you go new or used. What it lacks in modern style and technology, however, it makes up for in space. There are 40 inches of rear legroom and the trunk offers 16 cubic feet of storage space. The rear seats also fold in a 60/40 configuration to enable hauling of longer cargo.
Cloth is the base upholstery spec with leather fitted to the Touring L trim – in 2020 and 2023 – and quilted Nappa hides included on range-topping 300s. Climatized front seats, heated rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic moonroof, and a heated steering wheel are all available to dial up the level of luxury.
Also common to both of these model years is the standard 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Unfortunately, the only other notable tech is a Wi-Fi hotspot and a navigation system. In 2020 and 2023, these features required an optional package to access. For the audiophile crowd, there is a 19-speaker sound system from Harman Kardon, but it’s only found on the limited-run 2023 300C with the 6.4L motor.
Trims and Features
Shopping the new vs used Chrysler 300 market is simplified by the 2020 and 2023 model years sharing the Touring trim line as the base model. New, it starts at $37,740 and comes with 17-inch wheels, heated side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8.4-inch central display, and smartphone mirroring. You can find a used 2020 version with 45,000 miles for around $21,000 and enjoy an identical array of content.
The Touring L variant is also common to the 2020 and 2023 300. It features 20-inch rims, heated front seats, leather upholstery, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. New, the Touring L runs nearly $41,000 and like the Touring and S models offers a SafetyTec package that includes forward collision mitigation, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
In 300S trim, content includes sport front buckets, a sport-tuned suspension, and black trim throughout. These models also offer access to the 5.7L V8. An optional Comfort package adds adaptive headlights, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. New, the 300S starts at a bit more than $46,000 or you can find a lightly used option on CarsForSale.com for $29,000 with the V8.
Limited trim is exclusive to the 2020 Chrysler 300. These models have chrome and real wood trim along with standard climatized front seats and can be found with less than 60,000 miles for about $30,000. The 2020 300C trim line has the 5.7L V8, bigger brakes, and quilted Nappa leather upholstery. But the 2023 300C gets the 6.4L power plant, carbon fiber cabin trim, forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control all standard. It starts at $56,595.
The Verdict
2023 Chrysler 300 – chrysler.com | Shop Chrysler 300 on Carsforsale.com
So, what’s the better option in this new vs. used Chrysler 300 matchup? Normally, I’d point to the undeniable wonders of depreciation and favor a lightly used 2020 model to save significant dough. And that remains a good option. In particular, the sharp-dressed 300S with the 5.7L V8 is worth looking at for the engine rumble alone.
However, the thrill of standing on a gas pedal connected to a naturally aspirated 6.4L V8 and nearly 500 horsepower is impossible to pass up. You can bet there won’t be another one like it – ever. It’s a fitting farewell to car with a nearly 70 years of history behind it, a history we look at here. If you need more convincing, be sure to check out our in-depth 2023 Chrysler 300 review.
