While the Chrysler C-300 is widely recognized as being one of America’s first true muscle cars, it was much more than all brawn and power; it was, as one critic memorably christened it, “the banker’s hot rod,” as it was a refined, full-size automobile that had abundant luxury features and just happened to include the most powerful engine offered to the public since the supercharged Duesenberg SJ. Its specifications were the hottest of its era and included a full-race cam, higher compression, adjustable rocker shafts, solid valve lifters, and dual four-barrel carburetors with a special “bat wing” air cleaner. Matching the engine’s power were heavy-duty suspension, lowered ride height, an improved Powerflite automatic transmission, and a 3.54:1 rear axle.

At Daytona Beach, Tim Flock piloted a C-300 to a 127.58-mph two-way average in the flying mile, which was more than 7 mph swifter than its nearest competitor; he went on to win that year’s NASCAR Grand National Championship with another C-300. Those examples were two of only 1,725 C-300s built in 1955, of which the Chrysler Letter Car Club estimates only 10 percent remain in existence.

The car offered here reportedly underwent a four-year restoration at a cost said to exceed $90,000 in parts and materials alone. It is finished in the iconic color of Tango Red and features a luxurious tan leather interior. More recently, it received a complete engine rebuild with roller tappets for its present owner, a renowned collector with numerous concours victories to his credit. It has won the Amelia Award at the 2009 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, 2008 AACA Senior Grand National honors, and Best in Class at numerous other important venues. This C-300, offered with documentation of its history and restoration, still presents beautifully and is certainly one of the nicest C-300s offered in years.

Here is a lucky new owner’s opportunity to experience the greatest power Detroit had to offer in 1955.