2004 Chrysler 300M Road Test

Equipped with AutoStick transmission - still one of the most intuitive manu-matics on the market. (Photo: Chrysler)

Coupled to the High Output V6 is Chrysler's "performance-tuned" AutoStick transmission - still one of the most intuitive manu-matics on the market. Let's not forget that these guys practically invented this feature back in the early 90s and are certainly responsible for much of its popularity and marketing success. They're also the experts at keeping it simple: Tap right to upshift, left to downshift - you've really got to try hard to miss a shift. The Special also adds a 3.89 final drive to extract maximum performance from this power train setup.

The Mopar boys have screwed on some good bits to ensure sporty handling, ride and steering too. Sport-tuned suspension, firm strut damping and 17:1 ratio speed-sensitive steering promise a firm feeling ride coupled with crisp steering and handling. Add gas-pressurized shocks, fatter anti-roll bars, front and rear independent suspension (MacPherson struts - front; Chapman struts with lower trailing links - rear) complemented by ABS Plus 4 wheel disc brakes (senses speed differences among the wheels during braking to provide additional stability) and all the ingredients are there for a blast though hill, dale or for that matter, downtown traffic.

Legendary creativeness match interior design with performance. (Photo: Chrysler)

And that's just the performance side of the equation. In this class interior touch, look, and smell are important attributes as well. Fortunately some legendary creative juices are at work here.