Alongside the 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 "Core", Chrysler also brought a “Core” version for the 300 SRT8 to the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. Just like the Challenger model, the new 300 SRT8 Core version is also considerably cheaper than the standard 300 SRT8: $43,995 vs. $47,995.

Just like with the Challenger SRT8 "Core" version, the new 300 SRT8 Core has also been inspired by models like Charger SRT8 Super Bee and SRT Viper. The new 300 "Core" Edition receives special badges on the front fender, a set of upgraded wheels and on the inside, seating surfaces with the same "Ballistic" cloth inserts from the SRT Viper.

The $4k difference in the car's price is given by the lack of all those fancy features you may have been used too, as the new Core editions were specially designed "with the back-to-basics performance driving enthusiast in mind."

Hit the jump to read more about the 2014 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Core.

2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Core

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Core
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 470
  • Torque: 470
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

Distinguishing a the new Core version from the standard 300 SRT8 model will be a little bit difficult, mainly because the biggest difference is the special "6.4L" badge on the front fenders and a new set of wheels with black-painted pockets and standard black Brembo brake calipers.

Customers can choose between eight exterior colors: Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Deep Cherry Red Pearl Coat, Gloss Black Clear Coat, Granite Crystal Pearl Coat, Ivory Pearl Tri-coat, Jazz Blue Pearl Coat and Phantom Black Tri-coat Pearl.

Interior

A few updates have also been made on the interior and they are limited to the addition of new seating surfaces, featuring the same premium "Ballistic" cloth inserts from the SRT Viper. There will also be dark slate gray "Axel" cloth bolsters, door bolster inserts and a mini-carbon bezel instrument panel.

Drivetrain

Just like with the standard 300 SRT8 version, the new Core Edition is powered by a 6.4-liter V-8 engine that delivers a total of 470 horsepower and a peak torque of 470 pound-feet. The engine is mated to a standard manual transmission or an available automatic one.

Being a HEMI engine, this 6.4-liter V-8 has been equipped with an advanced active intake manifold along with high-lift cam for an impressive fuel economy of 23 mpg.

Engine

6.4-liter HEMI V-8

Output

470 horsepower

Torque

470 pound-feet

0 to 60 mph

4 seconds

0-100-0 mph

16 seconds

Quarter mile

12 seconds

Top Speed

175 mph

60-0 mph

120 feet


Prices

The new Chrysler 300 SRT8 Core Edition is priced at $43,995. It will be put on sale later in the summer.

Competition

The list of competitors for the new Chrysler 300 SRT8 Core Edition remains pretty much identical to that of the standard 300 SRT8.

Cadillac CTS-V

The CTS-V sedan is a far more impressive sedan than the 300 SRT8, but it is considerably more expensive: $64,290. Still, you have to know that for the money you will get a car powered by a 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 with an output of 556 horsepower.

When it comes about the look, the CTS-V also has a big advantage, but then again with a $20k difference between the two models it had better look good.

Lexus IS-F

A sedan delivering performance numbers closer to the 300 SRT8 is the Lexus IS-F. It is powered by a 5.0-liter V-8 engine rated at 416 horsepower - a little bit less than in the 300 SRT8. Also, the IS-F is a little bit more expensive than the 300 SRT8 - $61,750 - but this model also offers an impressive level of luxury on the inside.

Conclusion

The new Chrysler 300 SRT8 is the right car if you want a $4k cheaper SRT8 model. For this money, however, you will have to drop comfort features you may have become used too. Still, the new “Core” edition is the car for you if you wanted just for the simple driving pleasure.