The
Chrysler Crossfire Coupe was first introduced in concept form at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, 2001, and the process of turning concept into reality took under two years to complete, with a production version exhibited at the LA International Auto Show in early 2003. The model was the first vehicle to be produced under the new
Chrysler and Daimler-Benz merger, and the latter called it “where Route 66 meets the Autobahn”.
A close inspection of the Crossfire reveals many Daimler-Benz characteristics, as the model shares around 40% of its characteristics with a Mercedes. The marque intends to use the Crossfire as a demonstration of how the
Chrysler brand can be taken into more up-market sectors by employing class-leading Mercedes parts, products and methods.
Design and Style
Marketing strategies aside, the Crossfire really is a head-turner, attracting as much attention as the PT Cruiser or VW Beetle’s first appearances on the market. It is a genuine two-seater coupe, without even a token rear seat. This allows for the rear hatch to open onto a relatively large storage space behind the two seats, big enough to accommodate two average-sized suitcases.
From the outside, the modified boat-tail rear end (associated with American 1930s cars) does little to hide the fact that, from almost every viewing angle, the Crossfire looks like a
Mercedes-Benz. Indeed, the lateral vents could easily have been grafted directly from the SL500 – only the most discerning observer will notice that the Crossfire vents house three slats, whilst the SL500 is endowed with just two.
Driving the Crossfire
The Crossfire is a rear-wheel drive vehicle, and its chassis is among the stiffest on any road car in the world. This not only allows the 3,100 lb Crossfire to handle predictably and smoothly on any terrain, but also ensures a comfortable ride for the occupants. The engine is the same as that used in the Mercedes SLK 320 – a 3.2-litre V6, producing 215 bhp and 229 lb/ft of peak torque. The combination of powerful engine and Mercedes 6-speed manual gearbox means that the Crossfire is a high-performance car with plenty of pulling power. A
Chrysler 5-speed automatic is also available, and makes driving in stop-and-go traffic a little less arduous. Standard equipment includes traction and stability control and enormous vented disc brakes.
The Verdict
The Crossfire Coupe is not for families with children – it is for drivers. It is not for those who crave inconspicuousness, as the Crossfire is an undeniably beautiful machine which will undoubtedly attract attention. As the DaimlerChrysler flagship vehicle, the Crossfire signals an upturn in the fortunes of
Chrysler, and is an indication of their return to the top of the market. A convertible version of the Crossfire is also available, looking even more stunning than the coupe.
© 2006 Martin Hemmings and Gary Tsang for www.sport-cars.org
April 1, 2008, 11:00 am
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