The Chrysler 300C SRT8 debuted in March and has already sold out (it was an abbreviated model year with only 240 units). A 2006 version is now hitting showrooms.

Changes are limited to the addition of front seatbelt warning chimes, a cruise-control indicator light and four-wheel tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 300C SRT8 is ahigh-performance version of the popular 300C sedan and will be joined by similar versions of the Dodge Charger and Magnum this year. It performs like a super-car (zero to 60 mph in around five seconds) thanks to a 6.1-liter version of the 300C’s Hemi V8 engine that produces an explosive 425 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque.

While some import sport sedans may offer more sophistication, at around $40,000 it’s hard to top the 300C SRT8’s sheer muscle for the money. If you’re concerned about fuel consumption, though, consider that this thirsty beast averages 17 miles per gallon, according to the EPA.

A beefed up and specially calibrated five-speed automatic, with the option of manual gear selection, is the only available transmission. Handling has been upgraded compared to standard 300C sedans with a lower ride height (by one-half inch), beefier anti-roll bars, stiffer springs, sophisticated Bilstein shock absorbers, antilock Brembo disc brakes and 20-inch aluminum wheels with Goodyear F1 performance tires.

A proud and prestigious vehicle during the 1950s, the 300 fell into anonymity during the ’60s and then pretty much disappeared from the automotive landscape for more than 30 years. Only with the current model has Chrysler revived the accolades and respect that once surrounded this proud nameplate.

Thanks to its distinctive styling, roomy interior and powerful performance capabilities, the latest Chrysler 300 has become a popular choice in the large sedan segment. The 300C trim level, in particular, is an impressive vehicle thanks to its powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine. It’s bracketed by two affordable V6-equipped models on one end and the high-performance 300C SRT8 on the other. According to our editors, nearly all 300 models should serve consumers well.

Bilstein and Brembo are both hallowed suppliers of racing and high-performance parts, which is why they’re tapped for Chrysler’s SRT — “Street Racing Technology” — models.

The conventional 300C already holds the pavement well, and the SRT8’s modifications make it even more tenacious, though they create a harsher ride. The car’s standard Electronic Stability Program is tuned to maximize cornering abilities and allow the car to slide some through curves without intervention. While traction control remains standard, you’ll need to stock a set of winter tires if you live in a Northern state or swap the standard performance-oriented F1s for all-season rubber (a no-cost option) since they’re rated only for three-season use.

The current Chrysler 300 debuted in 2004 for the 2005 model year. As a large five-passenger sedan with rear-wheel drive, it’s been designed to appeal to consumers desiring something with a bit more personality than a regular family sedan or an alternative to popular Japanese or European entry-luxury sedans. Some of the 300’s underlying mechanicals are derived from Mercedes-Benz technology (an obvious benefit of the DaimlerChrysler merger), and it’s a platform sibling to the Dodge Magnum and Charger.

The 300’s styling is unmistakably American. The large chrome grille, double-lens headlights, high beltline, bulging fenders and large wheels give it a strong presence on the road. A long 120-inch wheelbase shortens up the front and rear overhangs and opens up plenty of occupant space on the inside. Cabin dimensions are generous in all directions, and the 300 offers more legroom than most of its competitors. Its overall interior design has been described as simple but elegant. The dash area effectively combines sporty, semi-retro and luxury motifs.

The SRT8’s exterior has more aggressive front and rear fascias, a functional rear spoiler, and body-colored front grille, mirrors and door handles. Its power-heated front seats have suede inserts that keep occupants from sliding around during extreme maneuvers.

As with the 300C, standard equipment is plentiful and includes such high-end items as adjustable pedals and a Boston Acoustics audio system with CD changer and MP3 playback. Options include a DVD entertainment system, Sirius satellite radio, navigation system, a remote engine starter and side-curtain airbags. The latter should be standard on a car at this price.

For power, the base 300 relies on a 200-horsepower V6 connected to a four-speed automatic transmission. Touring and Limited have a larger 250-hp V6 and a five-speed automatic. The top-shelf 300C and 300C SRT8 feature a V8 engine. The 300C’s makes 340 hp and the SRT8 boasts 425 hp. The SRT8 also features a stiffer suspension setup, more powerful brakes and a larger wheel and tire package. Most 300s are rear-drive, but Chrysler does offer all-wheel-drive versions of the Limited and 300C.

The 300 name was briefly resurrected in 1979 for a special version of the rather awful Cordoba. It would then take another 20 years before Chrysler decided to roll out the 300 moniker again. This was the 1999 300M. Unlike previous 300s, this was a front-drive sedan only. Based on the second generation of Chrysler’s “cab forward” LH platform, the 300M used a 3.5-liter V6, making 253 hp (that’s net horsepower, a far more conservative standard than the “gross” rating used prior to 1972) and mounted longitudinally in the engine bay. It was built through the 2004 model year.