The 300B was released in 1956. Starting with this model and ending in 1965 and then re-starting in 1999 with the M series, all models would be labeled with a sequential letter after the initial 1955 300. The standard engine was upgraded to a new 354 cid Hemi V8 with similar features which generated 340 bhp. Optional was a more powerful version with 10:1 compression that produced 355 bhp. Included with the optional motor was a special three inch exhaust system. Performance of the new 300B improved as it averaged over 90 mph in the Daytona Grand National and hit almost 140 mph in the Flying Mile. Only 1,102 copies were sold.

The 300B's styling reflected the same unique flavor that the first letter car introduced in 1955. Changes were essentially limited to tail lamp alterations, in line with those appearing on other 1956 Chryslers. The pushbutton control for the Powerflite (later cars had Torqueflite) automatic transmission was positioned to the left side of the dash. Technically a sub-series of the New Yorker, the 300B was available with automatic or standard shift transmissions and two high-performance hemi engines. Leather upholstery was. standard fare.

300B I.D. NUMBERS:
Production of letter cars took-place exclusively in Detroit, with numbers ranging from 3N56-1001 to 3N56-2150. Engine numbers were 3NE56-1001 to 3NE56-2174.

Note 1: Code numbers to provide positive identification of body type were not used.

300B ENGINE - V-8.
Overhead valves, High-lift camshaft, Extra stiff valve springs, Cast iron block, Displacement: 354 cubic inches, Bore and stroke: 3.94 x 3.36 inches, Brake horsepower: 340 at 5200 R.P.M., With optional 1O:1 compression ratio, brake horsepower became 355 at 5200 R.P.M.).

CHASSIS FEATURES:
Transmission: 2-speed Powerflite automatic transmission standard. Three speed manual transmission with column shifter optional. Late production 300B equipped with 3-speed Torqueflite automatic transmission. Wheelbase: 126 inches. Overall length: 220.5 inches. Last year for front coil springs combined with rear leaf springs.

At A Glance

Year

Body Style

Model Number

VIN

cid

bhp/rpm

Torque

Lifters

Heads

CR

Induction

Axle Ratio

WB in.

Wt lbs

bhp/ci

lbs/bhp

Price

Production

1956

2-Dr Spt Cpe - 6P

C72-300

3N56

353

340/5200

385/3200

Solid

Hemi

9.0:1

2-4 bbl

3.36:1

126

4145

.963

12.2

$4242

1102

Engine Compartment
Hood Emblem	Tail Light	Standard Hubcap	Optional Wire Wheel

Continuing A Racing Dynasty

This Chrysler was part of one of the most successful teams in the history of the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR). In 1956 team owner Carl Kiekhaefer's cars won 22 out of 41 races, including 16 in a row. This was one of the cars Buck Baker drove on his way to becoming the NASCAR driving champion in 1956. Unlike modern NASCAR racers this is a real production car, modified for racing. Carl Kiekhaefer brought a new level of professionalism to stock car racing. His cars, drivers, and mechanics all wore matching uniforms. He transported his cars in closed trucks rather than open trailers, and his teams were among the first to practice pit stops. After dominating the 1955 and 1956 seasons Kiekhaefer left racing for good. Engine: Chrysler V-8, overhead valves, 354 cu. in., 355 hp

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