1961 Chrysler 300G Convertible

In 1955, Chrysler introduced the 300 as part of Virgil Exner's all-new lineup of high-style cars with thrilling performances. The 300 had a 331 cubic-inch Hemi V-8 engine that offered 300 horsepower. it would soon become legendary in racing, winning, among other venues, NASCAR's championship in 1955 and 1956 with enlarged Hemi engines of 354 CID available in the 300-C.

With the multi-carburetor option, the 1956 300-C was the first Detroit V-8 to produce one horsepower per cubic inch. The Chrysler Hemi engine was dropped from production in 1959 due to a nationwide recession. In its place was a larger displacement, and cheaper-to-produce, wedge combustion chamber engine. The cars they powered had racy styling with abundant chrome and wings last shown on 1961 models. The 300 line lasted until 1965, only to be revived decades later.

Production of 300-G Chrysler's as hardtop coupes totaled 1,280. This convertible was among just 337 drop tops built that year and the only example in Sheffield Silver. Discovered in a barn, it was returned to its original elegance recently with a complete restoration.

At a base price of $5.841, the 300-G convertibles were among the most expensive American cars but gave their occupants 4-place bucket seat travel in rarefied elegance with high performance from either 375 or 400 horsepower engine displacing 413 cubic-inches.