The 1965 Chrysler 300L Convertible is an important car for multiple reasons, marking the end of the esteemed ‘Letter Series’ line. This particular example, finished in a striking Black exterior over a Red interior, also carries an incredibly rare feature that elevates its collector status significantly. It represents the last iteration of Chrysler’s executive performance vehicle, blending full-size luxury with true high-performance muscle.
The Final Chapter of the Letter Series
For more than a decade, the Chrysler 300 Letter Series stood for American luxury and high horsepower. Consequently, the 300L Convertible was the final car in this lineage when it debuted for the 1965 model year. The styling adopted a cleaner, more squared-off look, reflecting the tastes of Chrysler’s new design chief, Elwood Engel. This departure from the earlier Forward Look era gave the car a crisp, contemporary presence.
A Striking Black and Red Presentation
The exterior of this 1965 Chrysler 300L Convertible is presented in Black, offering a formal and commanding road presence. The color choice perfectly suits the car’s slab-sided, elegant silhouette. Inside, the cabin features a contrasting Red interior, a classic Mopar pairing that emphasizes its luxurious appointments. The color combination truly highlights the grand scale of this personal luxury machine.
The Rarest Combination: 4-Speed Manual
While the 300L was a rare car to begin with, the transmission choice here is what collectors covet most. Chrysler produced only 440 convertible examples of the 300L for 1965. However, of those already scarce drop-tops, a mere 108 were factory-equipped with the desirable 4-speed manual transmission. This low number is staggering and positions this car as one of the rarest production Mopars of its era. Therefore, seeing a 1965 Chrysler 300L Convertible 4-Speed at auction is a special event.
Luxury and Comfort Features
The 300L was engineered to provide comfort alongside its formidable speed. Standard equipment included a host of power assists like power steering and power brakes for effortless operation. Inside the spacious cabin, occupants benefit from desirable features such as factory air conditioning and an AM/FM radio. The interior also boasts bucket seats with a console and a dash-mounted tachometer, underscoring its dual nature as both a luxury and a performance machine.
413 V-8 Performance Specifications
The engine powering the 1965 Chrysler 300L Convertible is the powerful 413 cubic-inch V-8. It was the sole engine option for the final Letter Series car. This big-block Wedge engine is equipped with a four-barrel carburetor and a 10:1 compression ratio, producing a robust 360 horsepower. Sending this considerable power to the rear wheels is the highly significant 4-speed manual transmission. The combination of the big 413 V-8 and the three-pedal setup delivers an engaging and visceral experience completely unexpected in a car of this size.
A Standout at the Kissimmee Auction
This particular 1965 Chrysler 300L Convertible is set to cross the block at the Kissimmee 2026 auction. The car’s distinct VIN, C453273740, points to its factory specifications. Its scarcity, being 1 of 108 examples with the 4-speed, guarantees high interest from serious Mopar collectors. Given its rare features and striking color scheme, this car presents a unique opportunity for an enthusiast to own a significant piece of American automotive history.
Ultimately, the 1965 Chrysler 300L Convertible represents the zenith of Chrysler’s blend of luxury and raw performance. The availability of this rare 4-speed model offers a special chance to acquire a unique artifact from the ‘Letter Series’ swansong. This car perfectly summarizes the era when power and sophistication were married in a single, imposing package, appealing to buyers who demanded the best of both worlds.
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Source: mecum.com
