375 bhp, 413 cu. in. overhead valve V-8 engine, three-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission, torsion bar independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel power-assisted drum brakes. Wheelbase: 126"

- Offered from an important private collection

- 375 bhp ram induction wedge engine

- Desirable and rare convertible body style

Chrysler’s new C-300 created a sensation in 1955. Based on the New Yorker hardtop coupe, it had front sheet-metal and grille from the Imperial and the most powerful engine in the company catalog, a 331-cubic inch hemi V-8 with dual four-barrel carburetors, a racing cam and solid lifters. At 300 bhp – from which it took its name – it was the most powerful American passenger car engine. For 1956, a new 300B model began the “letter series” that would continue for a decade.

A convertible was added with 1957’s 300C, featuring a full leather interior and the new corporate styling. This year marked the debut of the round tri-color “300” emblem, emblazoned prominently on the rear quarter panel. The Hemi engine now displaced 392 cubic inches and developed 375 horsepower, or 390 with optional dual-quad carburetion. Smaller, 14-inch wheels gave a lower profile.

The letter series progressed alphabetically, the 300D for 1958 experimenting with fuel injection and 1959’s 300E switching to a 413-cubic inch wedge engine. The 300F in 1960 introduced ram induction, and horsepower soared to 400. The wedge engine was continued for 1961 with the 300G, and the front end was restyled, reshaping the grille and mounting the headlights in slanted formation.

This 1961 Chrysler 300G Convertible underwent a mechanical and cosmetic restoration in 2002, which we are told adhered strictly to original specifications. Fresh from the shops, it was rewarded with a blue ribbon at that year’s Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance.

Elegant in black with tan leather seats, it has Chrysler’s iconic jet-like dashboard instrumentation and ultra-luxurious swivel front seats. Accessories and amenities include power windows, power steering, power brakes and a power top. As a nice additional touch, one of the original tires resides in the trunk as the spare.

Acquired by the present owner in 2005, it has been kept in secure, climate-controlled storage.

The “G” edition of the 300 Series is considered by many to be the last of the great letter-series cars. From 1962, the 300H and its successors shared a platform with the cheaper 300 Sport series, based on the Windsor, which siphoned off many of the letter series’ customers. Gone, too, were the fins of the ’50s and early ’60s, blunted in the corporate purging of Exner influence. This has helped solidify the 300G’s status as one of the most collectible cars of the 1960s. These special cars have continued to appreciate in both value and enthusiasm, as they are distinctive to look at and fun to drive. This car, one of 337 300G convertibles, demonstrates why this is so.

As part of a large private collection, this car has been treated to climate-controlled storage but has seen little exercise in recent years and will require thorough professional inspection before being driven.