Chrysler 300 first of modern muscle cars

Thus reads the introduction to an original 1966 Chrysler sales brochure. And what did the sales literature say about the mighty 300 hardtop? “The Chrysler 300 is going to be hard to resist, wouldn’t you say? Let us tell you about this car.

“You couldn’t find a better example of what Chrysler is all about this year. Everything says youth. Vitality. It’s got a look that’s crisp. Clean. The most powerful array of V-8s ever offered in Chrysler’s history. Four to be exact. They range from a 383 cubic incher that runs on regular fuel, to a potent 440 TNT with twin exhausts and twin snorkels. What are snorkels? They are horns (intakes) that supply the carburetor with fresh air — do great things for performance!”

One must remember that gas was only about 33 cents a gallon in the mid-1960s, and muscle cars were the craze. Flashing performance was the topic among car buffs, and not many then cared about “green” cars that might help preserve the environment.

Meanwhile, the big cities of the world began to choke on clouds of carbon monoxide, as smog levels rose. The 1970s would witness a reversal of the trend, with more emphasis on economy, especially when the price of gasoline began to escalate.

In spite of all that, muscle cars still appeal to collectors who admire the galloping beasts of the glory days of V-8s.

Tad Burness welcomes mail from readers. His address is “Auto Album,” P.O. Box 247, Pacific Grove, CA 93950. Please enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope if you would like a reply. If you would like to be contacted by telephone, please include your phone number, with area code, in your reply.