'60 Chrysler 300F Vs. '96 Chrysler Sebring JX

Today's Sebring can't touch those feats of speed. The largest available engine is a 2.5-liter V-6, and after its 168 horsepower is filtered through an automatic transmission and harnessed to this moderately heavy car, there's no excess of forward thrust. The run to 60 mph takes a full 10 seconds, but there are compensating virtues. While the 300F's drum brakes need a lengthy cool-down after any aggressive use, the Sebring will stop all day long from 60 mph in a reasonable 142 feet. The current-generation convertible also handles significantly better than its predecessor thanks to its more manageable size plus rack-and-pinion steering, radial tires, and independent suspension systems that have been perfected in the intervening years.

Twirling the clear-plastic, flat-bottomed steering wheel in the 300F delivers precisely as much road feel as twisting a radio knob. In 1960, good handling was defined as stiff springs and tight shock absorbers for rock-solid stability at high speeds. The Sebring's approach is a more equitable balance between ride and handling. Steering effort and sensitivity are nicely in tune, and its chassis calibrations deliver minimal understeer at a significantly higher limit of adhesion.

By sliding speediness well down the priority list, Chrysler has replaced its hoary LeBaron with a roomy, comfortable convertible that looks great and is reasonably priced. As good as it is, however, the new Sebring won't stop some of us from yearning for those Golden Lion days when ram-tuned four-barrels and Flite Sweep tailfins ruled the road.