Chrysler’s exclusive 300 Series began in 1955 with Virgil Exner’s “Forward Look” C-300, and the “letter series” officially kicked off the following year with the prodigious 300B. The model edged ever closer to the elusive goal of one horsepower per cubic inch of displacement. Visually similar to the C-300, the 1956 300B received upgrades including 12-volt electrics, push-button transmission control, and revised rear coachwork that featured striking tailfins.

This 300B was first sold in Olympia, Washington in March 1956, and remained with its first owner until 1962. The last registration card issued was in 1971, and the car is presumed to have been off the road since that time. In 2020, the consignor purchased the 300B after discovering it in long-term storage. He immediately set about on a light mechanical awakening which included new tires, hoses, fuel tank, battery, and spark plugs. In late 2020, the engine roared to life and saw the road for the first time in decades.

The paint and interior are believed by the consignor to be largely original, and though worn, exhibit an irreplaceable patina; still present under the dash is the optional Highway Hi-Fi 16 2/3 rpm record player. The correct and valuable batwing air cleaner housing accompanies the sale as do a pair of Carter WCFB carburetors and the dual-quad intake manifold. Also included is an impressive file of original ownership documents and maintenance paperwork that dates back to the original purchase, tracking the Chrysler through the years.

But for a single appearance at a Southern California cars and coffee event in early 2021, the 300B has been unseen in public since 1971, and further mechanical work will be required before road use. Presented here is a rare and fascinating time capsule of luxury and speed. It is both one of the first true muscle cars and an early Hemi-powered highlight in the horsepower race to which the Big Three would devote their best resources for much of the next two decades.