allpar - chrysler, dodge, and jeep site

The second-generation Chrysler LHS and the Chrysler 300M

Chrysler LHS

Chrysler 300M review | Chrysler 300M Special Review | Repairs and Performance Upgrades

Key competitive vehicles were used as benchmarks in the design of new vehicles; benchmarking was used to set quality and function objectives. Benchmark vehicles having similar technology and construction were assessed to determine their efficiency and performance on key functions. For example, cars with longitudinal, front-wheel drive power trains were evaluated for power train noise, vibration and harshness characteristics.

The following benchmark vehicles, which are different from the marketing target vehicles, were used to establish functional performance criteria:

Chrysler LHS Chrysler 300M Both LHS and 300M
Lexus ES 300 Lexus GS 300 1993-1997 Vision and LHS
Toyota Avalon BMW 528 and BMW 740i Nissan Maxima
Lincoln Continental Buick Park Avenue Infiniti Q45, J30, I30
Cadillac STS Oldsmobile LSS Mazda Millenia
Oldsmobile Aurora Audi A6 Lexus LS 400
 

All seat tracks have 8.7 inches (220 mm) of longitudinal adjustment. This range of travel accommodates 96% of the US adult driving population. Slim center and rear pillars provide wide door openings, particularly in the rear, for easy entry and exit. The LHS trunk is roomier than in 1997; both LHS and 300M trunks benefit from a new hinge linkage that does not intrude on useable space.

LHS interior

The 3.5-liter V-6 engine increases acceleration. Stiffened, strengthened and refined engine structure makes it run smoother and quieter. Platinum-tipped spark plugs and coil-on-plug ignition systems provide 100,000-mile scheduled tune-up intervals for both engines.

Fuel economy was increased by lowering weight and reducing brake and aerodynamic drag.

Subtle revision of the steering system, suspension systems and tires increase steering, handling, and ride qualities with reduced harshness and road noise.

A "battery saver" system turns off exterior and interior courtesy lamps if the driver forgets. The starter is prevented from operating when the engine is running. Enhanced power train electronic system capabilities help assure mobility.

2000 chrysler 300m

Body Systems

Interior Features

Ergonomics

Safety And Security

Quietness

Reduced engine noise, better suspension isolation, improved body structural stiffness and better insulation all contribute to quietness. A rubber-isolated rear suspension cross member significantly reduces interior noise for rear seat passengers. Front suspension and power train mounting cradle isolation is significantly refined. Larger door weather strips and more accurate door fitting help minimize wind noise. Full-stamped doors provide a consistent sealing surface for the weather strips.

Aerodynamics

Aerodynamics played a major role in refining the exterior designs. The combination of a rounded front end in plan view, lower fascia shaping, gently flowing windshield pillars, aero-tuned sill cladding to enhance air flow around the tires and a tapered rear end combine to give these cars outstanding aerodynamics. The designs contain subtle aerodynamic refinements in the cowl, outside mirrors, windshield pillars and windshield header that reduce wind noise and help control water flow over the body as well as reducing drag. The drag coefficient of both vehicles is .31.

Aerodynamics features for water flow management and wind noise reduction include:

The following new or improved features help ensure ample cooling air flow through the engine compartment:

300M and LHS Noise Reduction

300M and LHS noise, vibration, and harshness reduction.

Updates and notes

The 2002 Chrysler LHS was renamed to Chrysler Concorde, and the existing Concorde was eliminated. We have a review of this vehicle (the Concorde-named LHS), as well as the 1999 and 2001 300M and the 2002 Chrysler 300M Special.

Chrysler 300M review | Chrysler 300M Special Review | Repairs and Performance Upgrades



Upcoming or Popular Dodges, Chryslers, and Jeeps

5 year plan (2009-2014) | 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee | Parts Prices | Chrysler 200C | 2010 300C | 2010-2014

Cars  Engines  People  Forums  Repairs  Reviews  Other car reviews  Us  Privacy Policy   News  Random   Contact

Allpar covers all Chrysler and related vehicles* and the company itself. Use the menus on top of the pages!

Please read the terms of use! We are not responsible for the consequences of actions taken based on this site and make no guarantees regarding validity, accuracy, or applicability of information or advice. Copyright © 1998-2000, David Zatz; copyright © 2001-2009, Allpar LLC (except as noted, and press/publicity materials); all rights reserved. Mopar, Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, HEMI, and certain other names are trademarks of Chrysler, LLC. We are not Chrysler and we don't make the Dodge Challenger.

Allpar - home of Chrysler, Plymouth, Jeep, and Dodge car, truck, and minivan information.