The 2023 Chrysler 300S 5.7L V8 reaches a governed top speed of 131 mph and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 5.3 to 5.6 seconds. As one of the final iterations of Chrysler's iconic full-size rear-wheel-drive sedan, this model combines old-school muscle dynamics with executive cruiser comfort.
If you're tracking how fast this heavy four-door sedan can go, the raw statistics tell only part of the story. Let's break down the powertrain metrics, handling limits, and track behavior of the final 5.7-liter Hemi-powered 300S.
Powertrain and Output Numbers
Under the hood sits a legendary naturally aspirated powerplant. The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 pushes out 363 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 394 lb-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm.
Power routes to the rear wheels through a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. While ZF-sourced eight-speed gearboxes are praised for quick, crisp shifts, the sheer weight of the Chrysler platform—hovering around 4,000 pounds—means the transmission has to manage a lot of momentum off the line.
- Horsepower: 363 hp @ 5,200 rpm
- Torque: 394 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) only for the V8 trim
Acceleration and Top Speed Limits
The 300S V8 hits 60 mph from a standstill in about 5.5 seconds in real-world testing conditions. Grip is the primary bottleneck during hard launches. Standard all-season touring tires struggle to harness 394 lb-ft of low-end torque immediately, often resulting in a brief chirp of wheelspin before the traction control steps in or the rear tires bite.
The vehicle's top speed is electronically limited to 131 mph. Aerodynamic drag and factory speed governors cap velocity at this mark, even though the engine has the legs to push further if unrestricted.
Handling Performance on the Street
While straight-line speed grabs headlines, how the 300S manages corners dictates its road manners. The 300S package includes a performance-tuned suspension featuring stiffer springs, specific bushings, and a larger rear stabilizer bar compared to the base Touring trim.
Body roll remains well-controlled for a car stretching nearly 200 inches long. However, physics dictates behavior in tight hairpins. Heavy front-end weight distribution means the car transitions into mild understeer when pushed past its limits on twisty backroads. Switching the transmission into Sport Mode sharpens throttle response, increases steering weight, and holds gears longer into the redline, transforming the character of the car from a quiet highway cruiser into an aggressive straight-line cruiser.
Comparison With the Limited 300C V8
Buyers often confuse the standard 300S V8 with the limited-run 2023 Chrysler 300C. They aren't identical machines.
While the 300S uses the 5.7L Hemi, the 300C packs a larger 6.4-liter (392 cubic inch) Hemi V8 making 485 horsepower. The 300C drops 0-60 mph times to 4.3 seconds and raises the top speed to 160 mph. Yet, the 300S remains significantly more common, more affordable, and easier to find on the used market. You can review official manufacturer history and archive details directly via the Chrysler Official Site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you remove the 131 mph speed limiter?
Yes, aftermarket engine tuners can remove or raise the electronic speed limiter, though doing so requires upgrading factory tires to units rated for higher sustained speeds.
Is the 5.7L V8 available with all-wheel drive?
No. Chrysler pairs the all-wheel-drive system exclusively with the 3.6-liter V6 engine. Choosing the 5.7L V8 means committing strictly to rear-wheel drive.
What is the fuel economy of the V8 model?
EPA estimates sit around 16 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Aggressive driving drops city figures quickly into the low teens.
Does the 300S V8 have a limited-slip differential?
Yes, it features a 3.09 axle ratio with a conventional differential, helping distribute power evenly to the rear wheels during hard acceleration. For deeper technical breakdowns on vehicle configurations, consult resources like Car and Driver.
