The Chrysler 300 is one of the most iconic names in automotive history. With all the hype of the new limited Chrysler 300C recently, demand for the original models continues to increase.
1955 was the first model year for the 300 and it was one of the original classic cars to feature the legendary HEMI engine. On the final episode of Auto Archaeology’s Largest GM Yard Finds series, the owner Todd discusses how he came across this diamond in the rough 1955 Chrysler 300 with an original HEMI V8 engine.
HEMI In A Land Of GM Cars
During the 9-part series, The Auto Archaeologist met with the owner Todd at his junkyard in an undisclosed location in the midwest. The previous episodes included several rare classic Chevrolet Camaros, a 1969 Chevelle, and a 1970 Nova SS. This final episode does things a bit differently by showing off one of GM’s rivals in a 1955 Chrysler 300.
While the exterior is a bit rough (as any car would be sitting in a junkyard for decades), the car is basically an all-original car. According to Todd, the car is still missing some interior and exterior pieces. However, the star of the show is the all-original 331 Cubic Inch “Firepower” HEMI V8 engine.
Todd bought the car from the original owner who claims to have purchased it brand new from a dealership in the Chicago area. He became aware of the vehicle in the 1970s, but the owner was unwilling to part with it until about 10 years ago.
As the Auto Archaeologist states, the car is “rough”. The trunk basically collapsed onto the rear end, rust covers most of the exterior, and there’s so much decay that you can even see through the floorboard in many parts. On the plus side, Todd mentions that the car has a 150 mph speedometer and claims he can personally attest to that speed.
To Restore Or Not Restore These Junkyard Cars
While Todd’s collection of classic GM cars (and this one-off 1955 Chrysler 300) is certainly impressive, it begs the question: What’s the point of keeping all these classic cars in a junkyard just wasting away? Many viewers are expressing their opinion of the matter in Auto Archaeologist’s comment section on YouTube.
Letting these classic pieces of automotive history continue to deteriorate is what is most upsetting to the audience. Others are even offering to buy particular examples for their own restoration project dreams. While some of the cars in previous episodes are too far gone, many could argue there are several worth saving.
However, even if the masses don’t agree with him, the choice is ultimately up to him. As the Auto Archaeologist states in the video, “it might not be worth restoring but it’s worth saving for someone”.