Chrysler 300C SRT8

The Chrysler 300C has won more awards than almost any other American car in recent history. Its retro looks are striking if not necessarily stunning, according to your personal taste, and the SRT8 is the top-of-the-range sports edition.

The engineering is impressive. A 6.1-liter HEMI engine delivers V8 performance with improved fuel economy. The chassis, suspension, steering and transmission all owe much to the Mercedes E-Class of the European side of Daimler-Chrysler.

Yet this is not an E-Class. This is an iconic American muscle car with performance to match. For around $50,000 you do not usually get a car that shifts from 0-100 kph in just under five seconds and 160 kph in less than 17 seconds with a 276 kph top speed to take advantage of its 300 kph speedometer. The Brembo brakes provide similar stopping power.

This awesome, Ferrari standard performance is sadly compromised by a mixed record for interior fittings. AME Info loved the leather sports seats and the internal CD-changer without a fiddly cartridge to remember to upload. The Boston Acoustics sound system is excellent.

Poor detailing

But the devil is in the detailing which is not so good. Parctronics fitted for rear parking but why not on the front? A massive, heavy spare wheel which fills up the boot, why not something slimmer? A fire-extinguisher mounted where passengers put their feet and an irritating ashtray that fails to close.

Plus the front-spoiler which can only just clear Dubai speed humps and looks fated to come off on a curb sooner or later. The interior is also full of Detroit plastic that you either like or hate.

However, for the would-be Ferrari customer on a tight budget the 300C SRT8 is a great car to drive. There is a less throaty roar when you put your foot down but the same surge of power, and the ability to look in the mirror and wonder where the other cars have gone.

Nice looking

Is this a practical car? Well, is a Ferrari much use for shopping at Spinneys? Not really but you might impress the neighbors and your friends from the office.

On the other hand, the SRT8 is also a very comfortable saloon with suspension that is not entirely compromised by the need to take corners at speed. It handles very easily on the road and would be ideal for a long distance commuter.

For example a daily trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi would be a breeze, and a lot more enjoyable than in most alternatives and certainly for this price. So the SRT8 has a niche because it provides performance at very good value for money.