Chrysler 300C or Acura TL
04-17-2004, 01:10 PM
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Chrysler 300C or Acura TL
I'm struggling with Raw Power vs...Controled acceleration.
Fishtail powersliding vrs supreme handling.
I was about 90% Acura TL and about 10% BMW 540i (used)....
But now I'm strugling over the tremendous power of the hemi 5.7 liter engine. It's simply awesome. 0-60 5.3 seconds on a boat. German enginering via mercedes thank you very much.
How much can I get out of that little 3.5 liter engine. I mean 0 to 60 in 5.7 is no slouch...it nearly beats my current Mustang GT. I love the raw torque in the Mustang....and the Hemi in the 300C cranks out 390 foot pounds of tourqe straight! Un adalterated.
HELP ME...
I love the styling of the TL the Safety....the warranty frankly sucks...but gadgets...oh the gadgets....lol
If I could be assured that I can get low 5's out of the TL I'm there.
Fishtail powersliding vrs supreme handling.
I was about 90% Acura TL and about 10% BMW 540i (used)....
But now I'm strugling over the tremendous power of the hemi 5.7 liter engine. It's simply awesome. 0-60 5.3 seconds on a boat. German enginering via mercedes thank you very much.
How much can I get out of that little 3.5 liter engine. I mean 0 to 60 in 5.7 is no slouch...it nearly beats my current Mustang GT. I love the raw torque in the Mustang....and the Hemi in the 300C cranks out 390 foot pounds of tourqe straight! Un adalterated.
HELP ME...
I love the styling of the TL the Safety....the warranty frankly sucks...but gadgets...oh the gadgets....lol
If I could be assured that I can get low 5's out of the TL I'm there.
04-17-2004, 01:22 PM
#3
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Originally Posted by XMLViking
I'm struggling with Raw Power vs...Controled acceleration.
Fishtail powersliding vrs supreme handling.
I was about 90% Acura TL and about 10% BMW 540i (used)....
But now I'm strugling over the tremendous power of the hemi 5.7 liter engine. It's simply awesome. 0-60 5.3 seconds on a boat. German enginering via mercedes thank you very much.
How much can I get out of that little 3.5 liter engine. I mean 0 to 60 in 5.7 is no slouch...it nearly beats my current Mustang GT. I love the raw torque in the Mustang....and the Hemi in the 300C cranks out 390 foot pounds of tourqe straight! Un adalterated.
I bought a used 540i about 7 years ago with 2000 miles on it. It was an BMW executive car. It is the best car I have ever owned, but it is expensive to maintain. 70,000 miles later it still rides and handles like the day I bought. It is now my wifes car and I drive our new TL. I called our Chrysler dealer last week and asked when the new 300c was coming in and they said "any day now". They were going to call me but in the meantime I decided to purchase the TL. It has a better warranty and I am still leery of Chrysler quality. I did see the car this week and it looks very different. I bet it is a blast to drive and I would definitely check it out. I also wanted to check out the new GTO but the dealers were not negotiating at all or even allowing test drives. I also drove the 04 Mustang GT 40th anniversary convertible and it had the right sound and V8 RWD handling, but it is a crude car compared to the TL. I did look around for another used 540i but could not find anything less than 40k with low miles.
HELP ME...
I love the styling of the TL the Safety....the warranty frankly sucks...but gadgets...oh the gadgets....lol
If I could be assured that I can get low 5's out of the TL I'm there.
Fishtail powersliding vrs supreme handling.
I was about 90% Acura TL and about 10% BMW 540i (used)....
But now I'm strugling over the tremendous power of the hemi 5.7 liter engine. It's simply awesome. 0-60 5.3 seconds on a boat. German enginering via mercedes thank you very much.
How much can I get out of that little 3.5 liter engine. I mean 0 to 60 in 5.7 is no slouch...it nearly beats my current Mustang GT. I love the raw torque in the Mustang....and the Hemi in the 300C cranks out 390 foot pounds of tourqe straight! Un adalterated.
I bought a used 540i about 7 years ago with 2000 miles on it. It was an BMW executive car. It is the best car I have ever owned, but it is expensive to maintain. 70,000 miles later it still rides and handles like the day I bought. It is now my wifes car and I drive our new TL. I called our Chrysler dealer last week and asked when the new 300c was coming in and they said "any day now". They were going to call me but in the meantime I decided to purchase the TL. It has a better warranty and I am still leery of Chrysler quality. I did see the car this week and it looks very different. I bet it is a blast to drive and I would definitely check it out. I also wanted to check out the new GTO but the dealers were not negotiating at all or even allowing test drives. I also drove the 04 Mustang GT 40th anniversary convertible and it had the right sound and V8 RWD handling, but it is a crude car compared to the TL. I did look around for another used 540i but could not find anything less than 40k with low miles.
HELP ME...
I love the styling of the TL the Safety....the warranty frankly sucks...but gadgets...oh the gadgets....lol
If I could be assured that I can get low 5's out of the TL I'm there.
Trending Topics
04-17-2004, 02:26 PM
#9
Three Wheelin'
I don't own either, so let me offer some observations - I have driven the TL, not the 300C, but did spend some time sitting in a 300 at a dealer the other day, and have read the road tests.
I think the 300C would be a really neat car to own, and I will likely consider it. My concern is resale value. The 300 will also be sold in two lower levels of trim, starting at under $23,000 and will be positioned as a Chrylsers most mass produced vehicle - the more they sell to a wide range of buyers, the better for them.
My experience with American sedans that have performance versions of their bread and butter sedans is that resale value sucks (I experienced this years ago with a Pontiac 6000 STE, then later had a Taurus SHO (fortunately I leased that car).
If you trade often, as I do, this should be a consideration. Or look into leasing and see what kind of residual Chrysler is willing on betting on.
I think the 300C would be a really neat car to own, and I will likely consider it. My concern is resale value. The 300 will also be sold in two lower levels of trim, starting at under $23,000 and will be positioned as a Chrylsers most mass produced vehicle - the more they sell to a wide range of buyers, the better for them.
My experience with American sedans that have performance versions of their bread and butter sedans is that resale value sucks (I experienced this years ago with a Pontiac 6000 STE, then later had a Taurus SHO (fortunately I leased that car).
If you trade often, as I do, this should be a consideration. Or look into leasing and see what kind of residual Chrysler is willing on betting on.
04-17-2004, 02:44 PM
#10
Banned
Originally Posted by ibeplato
the chrysler reminds me of the Homer Simpson car from an old Simpsons. It may be the ugliest thing I've seen since the Aztec.
I just prefer something more athletic.
04-17-2004, 02:52 PM
#11
Senior Moderator
If I were going to buy an American car, the 300C would be it. I like its retro look, and the Hemi engine certainly puts power to the wheels in a hurry. However, I've owned two Chrysler products and found them lacking in quality, so I'd have to factor that into the picture. In fact, I switched back to Honda products after owning a Dodge Intrepid; bought the 2GTL.
Bottom line: while the 300C seems an awesome car, you have to consider quality and reliability as well when you make your purchase.
Bottom line: while the 300C seems an awesome car, you have to consider quality and reliability as well when you make your purchase.
04-17-2004, 07:42 PM
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Not another one of these threads... 
Take a look at the 300 interior. It isn't even in the same league as the TL. The exterior styling is one that you either love or hate. It's going to float along the road like a 4000 pound boat because that's what it is. I'm not going to speculate on what market they're going after, but I'm guessing it's "Has that thing gotta Hemi???" :toothless
Take a look at the 300 interior. It isn't even in the same league as the TL. The exterior styling is one that you either love or hate. It's going to float along the road like a 4000 pound boat because that's what it is. I'm not going to speculate on what market they're going after, but I'm guessing it's "Has that thing gotta Hemi???" :toothless
04-17-2004, 07:50 PM
#15
Originally Posted by boltjames
Don't worry....just put one of Ron's plastic bolt-on kits on your TL and it'll look very Chrysler-like.
To be truthful I think the TL looks good uncluttered, but with my ADD, ADHD, and other similar ailments, I need something to protect my TL, even if it is superficial protection and may or may not be successful in preventing dings. But I need to know that there is some protection when I park the car.
Besides, I like those bulbous doohickies. Now I also have door edge guard moldings, so there is some more ammunition for you.
Best regards and keep up the good work. Without controversy this would be a very boring forum, with nothing to talk about except gas cap testicles and EL-42's.
04-17-2004, 08:40 PM
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Thanks Ron! That's what I get for being trapped in the house when it's 70 degrees and my newly-cleaned TL is begging me to drive it.
Sort of bored and stirring the pot. Zaino is tasty on steak though.
Sort of bored and stirring the pot. Zaino is tasty on steak though.
04-18-2004, 12:05 AM
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How many of you have seen the movie 'the car' (I think that was the name)? It was 70's B movie about a black car that was possessed. That's what the 300 reminds me of - one ugly a$$ car. How dare anyone compare chrysler with a TL? You can't seriously think that Chrysler moved up to Benz quality? Do you?
04-18-2004, 01:35 AM
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I had a 300M and HP for HP , there was no comparison to the 02TL-S I traded it in for. If what you want is a big roomy comfortable ride, consider the 300C but the TL will drive circles around it on a handling course. You will take a beating on trade-in too. Speedvison did a Testdrive show on the 300C and with the traction control turned off it was hanging the rearend out all over the place.
04-18-2004, 07:27 AM
#20
Three Wheelin'
Originally Posted by vothsc
Speedvison did a Testdrive show on the 300C and with the traction control turned off it was hanging the rearend out all over the place.
04-18-2004, 07:38 AM
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Well, if all you want to do is go in a straight line and burn up expensive rubber and gas by all means get the 300C - better yet get that Ram pickup with the Viper engine in it. Burning up tires is something I never got into and I've had plenty of cars I could do it with. Power that is un controllable is useless - the perfect example is a NASCAR stockcar that won't handle - notice how they go backwards compared to the cars that handle well. They're also a real nightmare in less than perfect traction situations.
04-18-2004, 08:24 AM
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Plus the 300c has a speed cap of 120MPH? I could be wrong, but I swear I read that somewhere? TL ALL THE WAY. I might consider the 300C in 40 years. Its too foppish and gaudy for me right now. Very nice engine though. Gotta hand it to those HEMIs. IMHO I think I would go w/ the TL. Speed/Power is only part of the story when your car looks uglier than crap. I mean honestly, how many times are gonna see your speed over the exterior design? Its not like you race everytime you drive, but people do see the exterior of your car everytime you drive and notice. The 300c is just any old crappy looking Chrysler, Oldsmobile, Buic, Cadillac etc.. w/ a big ass gas guzzling engine.
04-18-2004, 09:25 AM
#23
Senior Moderator
Originally Posted by vothsc
You will take a beating on trade-in too.
04-18-2004, 09:52 AM
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Originally Posted by ibeplato
the chrysler reminds me of the Homer Simpson car from an old Simpsons. It may be the ugliest thing I've seen since the Aztec.
04-18-2004, 11:52 AM
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Acura ?L vs. Chrysler 300C
If I were thinking of getting 7 Series BMW or an Acura RL I would definitely consider the 300C. But the TL and 300C is apples to oranges. The HEMI in the 300C is a nice option. Half of the cylinders shut off during highway driving so the gas mileage might be close to a TL if you do a lot of highway driving. But the Chrylser is just too big of a car.
04-18-2004, 12:13 PM
#27
Three Wheelin'
If you were seriously thinking of a 7 series or '05 RL AND could afford either of those AND were still bothering to consider a Chrysler, I'd recommend therapy. 
04-18-2004, 02:38 PM
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Originally Posted by casooner90
How many of you have seen the movie 'the car' (I think that was the name)? It was 70's B movie about a black car that was possessed. That's what the 300 reminds me of - one ugly a$$ car. How dare anyone compare chrysler with a TL? You can't seriously think that Chrysler moved up to Benz quality? Do you?
To me, the 300C looks like it has some older Bentley styling cues, and for some reason it also reminds me of the Green Hornet's car (60's TV show...Batman spinoff). Do a search and you'll see what I mean.
At any rate, any suggestion that the 300 will be "Mercedes quality" is ludicrous. MB's own quality has been suffering lately, and the 300 won't be nearly as solid as it looks. I predict disappointing resale values down the line.
The TL is far from perfect, but a better overall choice.
04-18-2004, 04:15 PM
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[QUOTE=theslik1]
At any rate, any suggestion that the 300 will be "Mercedes quality" is ludicrous. MB's own quality has been suffering lately, and the 300 won't be nearly as solid as it looks. I predict disappointing resale values down the line.
[QUOTE]
I thought I was only one thinking "Uhh...since when is a Mercedes reliable?"
Ask anyone who's actually owned a late model Benz and and you'll learn the truth.
MB had blamed the decrease is reliability ratings on the new M-series but it goes deeper than that. And instead of getting better it seems like its getting worse.
I predict terrible resale value.
At any rate, any suggestion that the 300 will be "Mercedes quality" is ludicrous. MB's own quality has been suffering lately, and the 300 won't be nearly as solid as it looks. I predict disappointing resale values down the line.
[QUOTE]
I thought I was only one thinking "Uhh...since when is a Mercedes reliable?"
Ask anyone who's actually owned a late model Benz and and you'll learn the truth.
MB had blamed the decrease is reliability ratings on the new M-series but it goes deeper than that. And instead of getting better it seems like its getting worse.
I predict terrible resale value.
04-18-2004, 04:56 PM
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Originally Posted by Stewie
If I was 60 years old I would probably choose the 300.
04-18-2004, 08:11 PM
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Originally Posted by TLGator
If you were seriously thinking of a 7 series or '05 RL AND could afford either of those AND were still bothering to consider a Chrysler, I'd recommend therapy.
I guess I was thinking more about the class of car versus the dollars. Granted, if you are considering a car purchase of at least 70 large you probably would not add the 300C to the list of possible candidates. But, carmakers want to capture your heart and your sense of style and wrap it up in a car that appeals to you no matter what the price. They're out to capture your money as well. If you're happy with the 300C, you can be happy that they didn't capture that other 35K. You can use that money to pay your country club fees.BTW, the 300C has so much Merc in it that you could call it a 300B(enz) and tell people you payed 15K more than you actually did and they would probably believe you.
04-18-2004, 08:15 PM
#34
Three Wheelin'
GO TL - Good points! And your insult is much appreciated, enjoyed, and definitely deserved!
I actually like the look of the 300. I just doubt the quality. Considering how nit-picky we can be on this forum, could you imagine this same group owning Chryslers? We'd be whining in our sleep!
Your points are well said and well taken. And don't I wish I could find a car like the TL for $35k less.
I actually like the look of the 300. I just doubt the quality. Considering how nit-picky we can be on this forum, could you imagine this same group owning Chryslers? We'd be whining in our sleep!
Your points are well said and well taken. And don't I wish I could find a car like the TL for $35k less.
04-19-2004, 12:43 PM
#35
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Originally Posted by Aegir
Not another one of these threads...
Take a look at the 300 interior. It isn't even in the same league as the TL. The exterior styling is one that you either love or hate. It's going to float along the road like a 4000 pound boat because that's what it is. I'm not going to speculate on what market they're going after, but I'm guessing it's "Has that thing gotta Hemi???" :toothless
Take a look at the 300 interior. It isn't even in the same league as the TL. The exterior styling is one that you either love or hate. It's going to float along the road like a 4000 pound boat because that's what it is. I'm not going to speculate on what market they're going after, but I'm guessing it's "Has that thing gotta Hemi???" :toothless
The warranty is better 7 years on the powertrain. But raunchy on the rest of the car at 3 years. The Acura TL is like 4 years everything.
The 300C will destroy the TL in drag...but the TL will out corner it easily. The TL is a front wheel drive vehicle...my biggest knock againts it. The torque steer is going to be crazy around the 300hp mark in that car.
I love the TL's looks very nice...reminds me of my mustang! The 300C looks like a grining fat man. LOL
Still debating.
04-19-2004, 12:46 PM
#36
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Originally Posted by GO_TL
If I were thinking of getting 7 Series BMW or an Acura RL I would definitely consider the 300C. But the TL and 300C is apples to oranges. The HEMI in the 300C is a nice option. Half of the cylinders shut off during highway driving so the gas mileage might be close to a TL if you do a lot of highway driving. But the Chrylser is just too big of a car.
It's ok looking....could be better for sure.
If I get a BMW it will be the 540I...very sweet ride indeed.
I like the TL just don't like front wheel drives...
04-19-2004, 12:55 PM
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Originally Posted by XMLViking
The G35 is rocking fast....killer interior but crapy breaks...very grabby.
04-19-2004, 12:57 PM
#38
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Ahh what ever....they are terrible. I like the G35Coupes brembos just fine. The G35 sedan I test drove was terrible. It could have been just that car.....
Get the AMG dude...LOL
Get the AMG dude...LOL
04-19-2004, 04:43 PM
#40
Three Wheelin'
Originally Posted by XMLViking
The 300C looks like a grining fat man. LOL
Still debating.
Still debating.