The iconic Pace Setter edition Chrysler 300, which paced the legendary Indianapolis 500 race in 1963, is set to go under the hammer at the upcoming 2023 Mecum Glendale event.
This convertible is not just any 300, but one fitted with a 6.3-liter (383 cubic-inch) V8 engine, which is noted as original to the vehicle. The engine is painted in corporate turquoise and features cast exhaust manifolds, while the car also boasts air conditioning, despite being a convertible. The engine is backed by a 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission, complete with the famous dash-mounted pushbutton shifter and new associated Park slide lever. All Pace Setters also came with power steering and power brakes.
This particular car is an original California model with black plates, which was previously in long-term storage for 40 years before being restored by a second owner. The exterior has been repainted in the special Pace Setter Blue (Code VV1), which is complemented by dramatic white lettering commemorating the historic race, won by the legendary Parnelli Jones.
The Pace Setter edition also came with an exclusive Alabaster vinyl (Code 227) interior, present in this car, and featuring front bucket seats, a center console, pushbutton radio, the ’63 quad-design steering wheel, pedal dress-up, and a script Chrysler logo on the right side of the dashboard.
Additionally, the exterior sports 300J-series emblems on the grille and quarter-panels, 300 numeric decklid font, and special turbine-type 300 multicolor hubcaps. The car is finished with upper and lower body-length trim edging and narrow-width white tires. A unique board of memorabilia is included with the car, which showcases some artifacts with Parnelli Jones’ signature.
This is a rare opportunity for car enthusiasts to own a piece of racing history and experience the thrill of owning a car that was built to pace one of the most legendary races in the world. Head to the Mecum website to learn more about this special Pace Setter edition Chrysler 300 and its upcoming auction at the 2023 Mecum Glendale event.
1963 Chrysler 300J ‘Pace Setter’ Edition Image Gallery:
