The V8 behind the 300C and a wide range of Dodge and Ram vehicles — genuinely tough, with a short, well-understood list of issues rather than anything approaching a chronic concern.
This engine has a long, well-documented track record across a huge range of applications, from family sedans to full-size trucks, and the core bottom end holds up genuinely well under normal use. The two recurring complaints — exhaust manifold bolts loosening, and Multi-Displacement System (MDS) lifter tick on cylinder-deactivation-equipped examples — are both well understood and rarely serious if addressed in reasonable time.
Not a guarantee, but a pattern seen consistently across owner forums and independent-garage reporting.
Exhaust manifold bolt issues most commonly surface within this range.
MDS lifter tick, where it occurs, tends to become more noticeable on affected examples.
Core bottom-end mechanicals are routinely still original and sound on documented, well-maintained examples.
Listen for a ticking exhaust leak noise, especially under load, a common sign of loosened manifold bolts — inexpensive to address but worth a small negotiation.
Listen separately for a tapping or lifter-style noise, which points toward MDS-related wear rather than the manifold bolts.
Beyond these two checks, there's relatively little else specific to flag on this well-proven engine.
Model-specific pages, with notes on how it behaves in that particular car.