Five years ago, the 2005 Chrysler 300 “daringly re-invented the great American sedan” and won the prestigious Motor Trend Car of the Year award. Prospective car buyers in the market for used Chrysler models in New Jersey may be interested to learn why.

In 2005, the staff at Motor Trend tested 24 of the most highly acclaimed new vehicles from almost every genre. They searched for the car, truck or SUV that best represented superiority in its class, exceptional value and innovation.

“The Chrysler 300 is an extremely compelling combination of power, responsiveness, room and refinement,” said Angus MacKenzie, editor-in-chief of Motor Trend. “A home run on significance, a slam dunk on value and clearly superior to its rivals in every way.”

The Chrysler 300C is available with a 5.7-liter 340-horsepower Hemi engine that can go from 0-60 in 6.3 seconds while carrying over 4,000 pounds on its back, Automotive.com reports. The ride is smooth, comfortable and quiet.

In 2005, a brand new 300 cost anywhere from $23,595 to $33,000 depending upon engine size and additional features.