There is a big difference between a Chrysler 300 and a Chrysler 300 letter car. The letter cars are the "original" 300s, and were produced from 1955 to 1965. Only 16,856 were produced, 2,588 of which were convertibles. Only 3,700 or so have been found, including those junked.

The first letter car was the 1955 C300. Subsequent editions followed the alphabet, minus the letter I. The 1956 model was the 300B, the 1957 was the 300C, etc. The last edition was the 1965 300L. Letter cars are characterized by big engines, leather interiors, and special body components and trim pieces.

The 1955-1958 models had the hemi engine with dual four barrel carburetors. The 1959-1963 models had the 413 wedge with dual four barrel carburetors. The 1960, 1961, and 1963 models had ram manifolds. The 1959 and 1962 models had in line dual four barrel carburetors, and the 1962 model had ram manifolds optional. The 1964 and 1965 models had a single four barrel carburetor 413 wedge. The 1964 model had optional ram manifolds, the 1965 had no optional engine.

Dishonest sellers will word their descriptions in such a way as to make the buyer think he is getting a letter car, when in actuality he is getting a different car altogether. What car? Read on.

In 1962, Chrysler decided to capitalize on the 300's reputation, and produced a plain 300 model without all the special equipment. This was a mass produced car, lasting into the 1970s, whereas the letter car was limited production. The plain 300s, called the "Sport" series by experts, are worth only a fraction of what letter cars are worth. Restored letter car convertibles go for $200,000 or more.

If the letter car is what you want, be sure that the one you look at has all the critical items intact, such as body components, grille, trim, engine and air cleaner assemblies, medallions, and interior components. These parts are extinct, and will cost a small fortune if you can even find them.

I suggest having a 300 expert evaluate any car before you bid.