If you remember the days when suburban driveways were filled with Chryslers, Buicks and loud echoing Mercurys then the new Chrysler 300 may recreate your childhood playground. Even if you cannot remember those days, it may serve you well to know the 2007 Chrysler 300 shares a lot in common with the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class: namely the suspension, chassis, engineering; and the distinct, retro-inspired styling of the 1955 cult classic. Today, however, there are four choices for engines: two V6s churn out 190 horsepower and 250 horsepower respectively. The two Hemi-V8s offer a multi-displacement system to save on fuel, while pumping out 340 horsepower and 425 horsepower. With a MSRP of $23,880 to $40,420 the 2007 Chrysler 300 averages 21/28 mpg in the V6, and 14/20 mpg in the Hemi. Other cars in this price point include the Acura TL, Nissan Maxima, Lexus ES 350, Toyota Camry, and Volkswagen Passat. Where the Chrysler 300 shines is in its ability to be a less predictable sedan at a valid price point.

Sitting inside the ergonomically designed cabin you can help notice how spacious it is. Vintage design elements are not lost in the interior appeal of the car. The layout is simple, but elegant as it once was in the original Chrysler 300. The dash is unencumbered of gadgets you would find in luxury cars, but the combination of the sporty, semi-retro and luxury motifs are highly effective communicative the retro-inspired, bold feel of the car. It is also worth mentioning that the white-faced gauges are the slick tortoise shell trim, enhancing the clean look and trim. Cabin dimensions are generous in all directions, and the Chrysler 300 offers more legroom than most competitors. Trunk capacity is also befitting a mid-size sedan at 15.6 cubic feet.

Activate any of the four choices of engines and the Chrysler 300 comes alive. The rear wheel-drive has abuzz with plenty of Mercedes-Benz technology and the car is considerably more refined than the 1950s ancestors. Sharing the chassis and suspension with the E-Class, the car handles remarkably well. The torque loving V8 is a bit excessive and keen to squeal the rear tires at the slightest provocation. Driving the Chrysler 300 is like taking a menacing bulldog for a stroll. You really have to pull back on the reins to make sure it does not go and attack the neighbors' cat. In our humble opinion either of the V6 at 190 horsepower or 250 horsepower versions have enough vitality for modern driving situations while saving you a fair bit on gas. The high life is plentiful in the 2007 Chrysler 300. It shares a lot with the Mercedes E-Class, and adequately communicates the feel of the road.

A large rectangular cube surrounded with pillows. Active safety features such as ABS, traction control, stability control are optional on the base version, but standard on the Touring, Limited and C versions. There is also the option for a longer wheel base for those coveting a secret longing for a limo like ride. Other features such as side curtain airbags, self-sealing tires and adjustable pedals are optional on all models.

For the longest time, American manufacturers have wanted to re-invent the automobile as it once used to be. The Chrysler 300 is actually the first jointly commissioned vehicle bearing the fingerprints of both Daimler-Benz and Chrysler. The combo unit features new Mercedes technology coupled with American styling. The Chrysler 300 body is shaped to evoke the historic 1955 300C, but only two things remain common from then to now: the giant front grille, and the hemispherical combustion chambers. The 340 horsepower Hemi weighs 4046 lbs, can sprint from 0 to 60 in 6.3 seconds. Mercedes suspension communicates a smooth ride, and a solid, comfortable cabin, not bad for a four-door family sedan.