The perpetual whirlwind of "new and improved" is blowing entry-luxury sedans toward rear-wheel-drive propulsion systems faster than you can say "snow tires." That's a pity because front-drive layouts boast so many intrinsic attributes. Case in point: Chrysler's 300M. In terms of value for money, well-rounded competence, and universal goodness, they don't get any better than this.
The M was created for the 1999 model year as a tribute to Chrysler's renown letter cars of the Fifties and Sixties. Initial grousing about the lack of a V-8 engine and the fact that the front tires provided all the forward motivation ceased as soon as critics and customers sat down behind the wheel. What they found was the $30K class's most distinctive exterior design, a highly space-efficient package, and an invariably cheery disposition. After the 300M handles all its 9-to-5 obligations, it punches in for overtime to provide its commander with entertaining driving dynamics.
The M's secret to success may be the way its powertrain components are arranged. Instead of packing major propulsion components sideways under the hood, Chrysler followed a longitudinal game plan. The crankshaft runs north-south to feed a transaxle with a similar orientation. The key benefit is more space for suspension components, driveshafts, and passengers. This approach also allows for exhaust-system symmetry, a boon to power and efficiency.
Author: Don Sherman
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