Chrysler Crossfire News **Production to end this summer (page 5)**

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 02-04-2003, 05:33 PM
  #1  
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Chrysler Crossfire News **Production to end this summer (page 5)**













The Chrysler Group announced today that production of the all-new 2004 Chrysler Crossfire is underway. Chrysler Group Chief Operating Officer Wolfgang Bernhard marked the occasion by driving the first Chrysler Crossfire off the assembly line in Germany. Members of the Crossfire engineering team were also on hand to celebrate the occasion.

The Crossfire is being built in Osnabrueck, Germany in conjunction with Karmann, a long-time DaimlerChrysler partner with more than 100 years of manufacturing experience. Founded in 1901, Karmann is one of the world's leading full-service suppliers to the automotive industry.

"Today, we celebrate the production launch of the Chrysler Crossfire, a vehicle that combines stunning American design with proven German engineering," said Wolfgang Bernhard. "In just twenty-four months, this vehicle went from a pure concept to the vehicle we are building today, because of the dedicated efforts at DaimlerChrysler to find the best synergies for all of our products."

Chrysler Crossfire was developed after a concept version of the car was revealed at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. A production version was unveiled one year later at the 2002 Los Angeles Auto Show. Today's production announcement makes the Crossfire one of the fastest concept-to-reality decisions in the auto industry.

Chrysler Group accelerated the speed to market due to the expertise of the Crossfire team and its ability to preserve key aspects of the concept vehicle, while identifying Mercedes-Benz components to be used in production. For example, the sleek design, wheelbase and center exhaust system were maintained from the original Crossfire concept, and powertrain and axle components are shared from Mercedes-Benz.

The 2004 Chrysler Crossfire is a low-slung, two seat sports coupe with a sculptured appearance. Under its hood is a 3.2-liter 90-degree V-6, 18-valve SOHC engine available with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

"The Crossfire represents the future of the Chrysler Brand, with proven quality and technology packaged in a stunning wrapper," stated Bernhard.

Chrysler Group has the capacity to build approximately 20,000 units, of which 15 percent will be earmarked for international markets. The Company expects to produce 11,000 units this year. Chrysler Crossfire will be available mid-summer 2003.
Old 02-04-2003, 05:42 PM
  #2  
I Feel Too Old Here
 
ItalianStallion's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2002
Age: 44
Posts: 5,100
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
i dont like the back, M coupe kinda lookin deal.....

but otherwise, looks like the americans (yeah its D-C but Chrysler is american) are cleaning up their act, less bland.
Old 02-04-2003, 05:45 PM
  #3  
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
I dont like the back either but the interiror and the front look great. Good job Chrysler. I hope they use a stronger engine though. I am guessing we will soon see the 3.7 liter V6 from Mercedes used, since the 3.2 is phased out. That new engine makes tons more torque and about 250HP.
Old 02-04-2003, 08:08 PM
  #4  
Suzuka Master
 
Doc.Booty's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Myrtle Beach
Posts: 7,391
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Interior looks nice, but i'm really not diggin the front. I'm undecided on the rear.
Old 02-04-2003, 08:17 PM
  #5  
Happy CL-S Pilot
 
Nashua_Night_Hawk's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Nashua, NH, USA
Posts: 9,215
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Kompressor... please...
Old 02-04-2003, 09:47 PM
  #6  
Instructor
 
mmmm's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Midwest
Posts: 139
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I don't like car at all, and I would never buy a Chrysler.
Old 02-05-2003, 12:30 AM
  #7  
Suzuka Master
 
KavexTrax's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Santa Clarita, CA
Posts: 8,546
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Is that celine dion?
Old 02-05-2003, 12:36 AM
  #8  
Advanced
 
TLCL's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Culver City, CA
Posts: 66
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
i don't know. .my bosses TT is butter smooth in terms of style. .i think this tries too much. .almost has a feel of the z3
Old 02-05-2003, 03:22 AM
  #9  
AWD Torque Monster
 
VXCL's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: NJ
Age: 41
Posts: 4,525
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
FUGLY!
Old 02-05-2003, 09:14 AM
  #10  
Three Wheelin'
 
AcuraFan's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: Minnesota
Posts: 1,754
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
The rear has sorta a domed look or something...kinda ugly. But the rest of it is growing on me. However, it's totally underpowered for it's segment.
Old 02-05-2003, 12:09 PM
  #11  
Suzuka Master
 
danny25's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2001
Location: TX
Age: 43
Posts: 8,869
Received 2 Likes on 2 Posts
I like it, except for the hatchback look.
Old 02-05-2003, 02:42 PM
  #12  
Instructor
 
neoprufrok's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: Bay Area, California
Posts: 208
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I think this is incredibly refreshing. The most cohesive design recently from a production (mass produced) car. The long hood-short tail is classic and very distinguishable from any other car on the road. The details like the creases, belt line, and strakes in the hood show that DC spent some time making sure the car stayed as close to the concept as possible. The interior is very nice also.

I think it is wrong to compare it to a hatch. The design harks back more to the classical designs of long hood, short rear deck.
Old 02-05-2003, 02:57 PM
  #13  
Masshole
 
EdgarFanCLS's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Massachusetts
Age: 45
Posts: 3,390
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Hey does the Crossfire have a trunk? I can't see any noticeable lines on the back that would indicate a rear hatch or opening.
Old 02-05-2003, 03:10 PM
  #14  
Banned
 
Red Nj-s's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: central jerzey
Age: 38
Posts: 5,547
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
the interior is hot, the exterior looks like that dude who flew around in a rocketpack, which is not good
Old 02-05-2003, 03:32 PM
  #15  
Moderator Alumnus
 
mantis23's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Carrollton, Texas
Age: 46
Posts: 17,856
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
that car has too much booty.
Old 02-12-2003, 11:52 AM
  #16  
My Home Planet
 
joeshmoe's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Burbs of D.C.
Posts: 3,495
Received 4 Likes on 4 Posts
I think the flowers on the hood really make the car stand out on the road!!!!
Old 02-13-2003, 08:14 AM
  #17  
A-CL Post Whore w/N2O
 
dustbuster4's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: D.C. Suburbs
Age: 58
Posts: 10,070
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
I love it!

Looks like the AMC Marlin!


http://www.geocities.com/marlin1965/marlinpage5.html
Old 02-13-2003, 11:37 AM
  #18  
"I'm the best"
 
Vitamin CL's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Toronto, ON,
Age: 49
Posts: 254
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I'm not really feeling it...

Guess I'll have to judge it again in person..
Old 02-25-2003, 07:23 PM
  #19  
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Crossfire: My video from the Chicago Auto Show

http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...4593&start=171

Click on the Crossfire piece. Can you tell I am a Depeche Mode fan?
Old 02-26-2003, 04:11 AM
  #20  
| Infinitely Variable |
 
Awais's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: ISB
Posts: 212
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I am [im]patiently waiting for the Lexus vids
Old 02-26-2003, 09:57 AM
  #21  
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Originally posted by Awais
I am [im]patiently waiting for the Lexus vids
You will get them. Now the GTO-G6-Grand Prix video is up. Look on another thread here.
Old 04-15-2003, 10:24 PM
  #22  
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Chrysler announces pricing for 2004 Crossfire

America's classic Route 66 will merge with Germany's legendary Autobahn this summer when the all-new 2004 Chrysler Crossfire begins to arrive in showrooms. The Chrysler Group announced pricing today for its all-new head-turning sports coupe. Chrysler will offer Crossfire with two transmission options, a standard six-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic with AutoStick®. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the six-speed manual version is $34,495. The MSRP for the five-speed automatic with AutoStick is $35,570. Both prices include an $875 destination charge.

<· To Arrive in Chrysler Dealerships By This Summer
· Sports Coupe of the Future Combines Stunning American Design with Proven German Engineering
· Combined with Introduction of Chrysler Pacifica, Crossfire Builds New Momentum for Brand

With the exception of transmission and tire options, Chrysler Crossfire comes fully-equipped with standard premium amenities including heated leather seats, power windows, speed control, dual-zone temperature control, customized Crossfire luggage, four-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), all-speed traction control, tire pressure monitoring system, and Chrysler's 7/70 powertrain warranty.

"With stunning American design and proven German engineering, Chrysler Crossfire is the ultimate expression of the Chrysler brand," said Tom Marinelli, Vice President, Chrysler Marketing, DaimlerChrysler. "Crossfire effectively establishes Chrysler as a premium brand, a brand that offers vehicles that are both aspirational and attainable. Without question, Crossfire will attract entirely new customers into our dealerships, including import-intenders."

The 2004 Chrysler Crossfire is a low-slung, two-seat sports coupe with a sculptured appearance. Under its hood is a 3.2-liter 90-degree V-6, 18-valve SOHC engine. Crossfire was developed in just 24 months after a concept version was revealed at the 2001 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. A production version was unveiled one year later at the 2002 Greater Los Angeles Auto Show.

With the introduction of the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica and Crossfire, the Chrysler brand continues to build momentum. Chrysler brand sales have nearly quadrupled to 481,000 units in 2002 from 130,542 units in 1991.

Following are features in the all-new 2004 Chrysler Crossfire:

Performance Features

· 3.2-liter, 18-valve, SOHC V-6 engine
· 215 horsepower, 229 lb.-ft. torque
· Six-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed electronically-controlled adaptive automatic transmission with AutoStick
· Rear-wheel drive
· Independent double wishbone front suspension with coil springs and gas-charged shock absorbers
· Independent five-link rear suspension with coil springs and gas-charged shock absorbers
· Speed-sensitive deployable rear spoiler at approximately 60 miles per hour
· Dual c enter-mounted exhaust outlets
· Seven-spoke aluminum wheels
· Ultra-high performance next-generation Michelin Sport Z-rated tires and wheels: P225/40ZR18 front and P255/35ZR19 rear
· Optional high-performance all-season Continental tires and wheels: P225/40ZR18 front and P255/35ZR19 rear, the industry's first Z-rated all-season performance tire

Premium Amenities

· Power eight-way heated leather driver seat
· Power four-way heated leather passenger seat
· Telescoping steering column with leather-wrapped steering wheel
· Power windows with one-touch down driver and passenger controls
· Speed control
· Infinity® Modulus audio system with AM/FM/CD radio and 240-watt digital amplifier (six speakers including dual subwoofers)
· Customized Chrysler Crossfire touring gear: three specially designed luggage carriers that feature design cues from Crossfire
· Dual-zone climate control with residual heating and air filtration
· Remote keyless entry with central locking (including fuel filler door)
· Illuminated entry system
· Universal garage door opener
· Rear window defroster
· Rear window antenna

Safety and Security Features

· Peace of mind security backed by 7/70 powertrain warranty
· Four-wheel anti-lock brakes with front power 300 x 28 mm ventilated disc brakes and rear power 278 x 9 mm solid disc brakes
· Electronic Stability Program (ESP) which integrates single brake application and throttle intervention for yaw control, ignition and throttle intervention for wheel spin control
· All-speed traction control senses drive-wheel slip and individually brakes the slipping wheel and/or reduces excess engine power until control is regained
· Next-generation driver and passenger front air bags
· Door-mounted thorax side air bags
· Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) child restraint system (with front passenger-side air bag deactivation switch)
· Tire pressure monitoring system
· Sentry Key® vehicle immobilizer
· Security alarm system (including tow-away protection)
· Quad halogen projector headlamps
Old 04-16-2003, 09:56 AM
  #23  
Racer
 
P-Man's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Plano, TX
Age: 47
Posts: 281
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
underpowered and overpriced. by a large margin.
Old 04-16-2003, 11:19 AM
  #24  
Banned
 
jimcol711's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2001
Location: Milwaukee, WI
Age: 44
Posts: 6,227
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
its a bit underpowered, but come on, we all have to give chrysler props for this shit, they are really trying hard to turn around and put out some respectable, quality stuff....this is just the beginning, next year it will probably be available with the benz 430 motor. and the new 300C is very impressive as well, looks like a damn BENTLY!!!

i wouldnt buy a crossfire, not powerful enough, but i do think its a huge leap in a new and awesome direction for chrysler and it raises the bar for other american manufacturers to strive for.
Old 04-16-2003, 11:21 AM
  #25  
Banned
 
jimcol711's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2001
Location: Milwaukee, WI
Age: 44
Posts: 6,227
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
they wont have a problem finding buyers, for something thats as unique and original as this, it will sell like hotcakes, for sure.
Old 04-16-2003, 11:30 AM
  #26  
Racer
 
P-Man's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Plano, TX
Age: 47
Posts: 281
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
i agree - and that 300C does look very nice indeed. but i saw the crossfire in person at the dallas auto show and it is quite ugly imho. i mean come on - you can buy a cl-s or a g35c for less than that thing!
Old 04-16-2003, 12:09 PM
  #27  
__
 
Zoot's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Pa
Posts: 1,743
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
i have a feeling this car will have trouble selling...
Old 06-11-2003, 11:06 PM
  #28  
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Crossfire reviewed

My edited video of the Crossfire:

http://24.221.29.240/Videos/Chicago%..._SVCD_DiVX.avi

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

C/D TEST RESULTS

ACCELERATION (Seconds)

Zero to 30 mph: 2.1
40 mph: 3.5
50 mph: 4.7
60 mph: 6.5
70 mph: 8.2
80 mph: 10.2
90 mph: 13.1
100 mph: 16.1
110 mph: 19.8
120 mph: 25.5
130 mph: 32.2
Street start, 5–60 mph: 6.9
Top-gear acceleration, 30–50 mph: 10.2
50–70 mph: 9.5
Standing 1/4-mile: 14.8 sec @ 96 mph
Top speed (drag limited): 151 mph

BRAKING

70–0 mph @ impending lockup: 161 ft
Fade: none light moderate heavy

HANDLING

Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.91 g
Understeer: minimal moderate excessive


FUEL ECONOMY

EPA city driving: 18 mpg
EPA highway driving: 27 mpg
C/D-observed: 18 mpg


INTERIOR SOUND LEVEL
Idle: 46 dBA
Full-throttle acceleration: 77 dBA
70-mph cruising: 73 dBA


2004 CHRYSLER CROSSFIRE

Vehicle type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 3-door coupe

Price as tested: $34,495

Price and option breakdown: base Chrysler Crossfire (includes $875 freight), $34,495

Major standard accessories: power steering, windows, seats, and locks; A/C; cruise control; telescoping steering wheel; rear defroster

Sound system: Infinity Modulus AM/FM-stereo radio/ cassette/CD player, 6 speakers

ENGINE
Type: V-6, aluminum block and heads
Bore x stroke: 3.54 x 3.31 in, 89.9 x 84.0mm
Displacement: 195 cu in, 3199cc
Compression ratio: 10.0:1
Engine-control system: Bosch Motronic ME2.8 with port fuel injection
Emissions controls: 3-way catalytic converter, feedback air-fuel-ratio control, EGR, auxiliary air pump
Valve gear: chain-driven single overhead cams, 3 valves per cylinder, hydraulic lifters, variable intake-valve timing
Power (SAE net): 215 bhp @ 5700 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 229 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Redline: 6000 rpm

DRIVETRAIN
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Final-drive ratio: 3.27:1
Gear ... Ratio ... Mph/1000 rpm ... Max. test speed
I ... 4.46 ... 5.1 ... 31 mph (6000 rpm)
II ... 2.61 ... 8.7 ... 52 mph (6000 rpm)
III ... 1.72 ... 13.3 ... 80 mph (6000 rpm)
IV ... 1.25 ... 18.4 ... 110 mph (6000 rpm)
V ... 1.00 ... 22.9 ... 137 mph (6000 rpm)
VI ... 0.84 ... 27.3 ... 151 mph (5500 rpm)

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Wheelbase: 94.5 in
Track, F/R: 58.3/58.2 in
Length: 159.8 in
Width: 69.5 in
Height: 51.4 in
Frontal area: 20.6 sq ft
Ground clearance: 4.9 in
Curb weight: 3111 lb
Weight distribution, F/R 54.5/45.5%
Fuel capacity: 15.9 gal
Oil capacity: 8.5 qt
Water capacity: 11.8 qt

CHASSIS/BODY
Type: unit construction
Body material: welded steel stampings

INTERIOR
SAE volume, front seat: 48 cu ft
luggage space: 8 cu ft
Front seats: bucket
Seat adjustments: fore and aft, seatback angle, front height, rear height
Restraint systems, front: manual 3-point belts, driver and passenger front and side airbags
General comfort: poor fair good excellent
Fore-and-aft support: poor fair good excellent
Lateral support: poor fair good excellent

SUSPENSION
F: ind, unequal-length control arms, coil springs, anti-roll bar
R: ind; 3 lateral links, 1 diagonal link, and 1 toe-control link per side; coil springs; anti-roll bar

STEERING
Type: recirculating-ball, power-assisted
Turns lock-to-lock: 3.1
Turning circle curb-to-curb: 32.9 ft

BRAKES
F: 11.8 x 1.1-in vented disc
R: 10.9 x 0.4-in disc
Power assist: vacuum with anti-lock control

WHEELS AND TIRES
Wheel size F: 7.5 x 18 in, R: 9.0 x 19 in
Wheel type: cast aluminum
Tires Michelin Pilot Sport; F: 225/40ZR-18 92Y, R: 255/35ZR-19 96Y
Test inflation pressures, F/R: 33/32 psi


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------


2004 Chrysler Crossfire
The beauty extends beneath the skin. But not quite into the engine bay.
BY TONY SWAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AARON KILEY
July 2003

It’s been five years since the “merger of equals” led to the creation of the DaimlerChrysler Corporation, and whatever you may think of the founding fiction, this car represents the first real offspring of that union.

Consider the genetics: sheetmetal conceived in Auburn Hills, Michigan; hardware conceived in Stuttgart, Germany; gestation and birth courtesy of limited-production specialist Karmann in Osnabrück, Germany. Limited in this case means 20,000 units per annum, some 17,000 of them destined for North America. The numbers are calculated to preserve a measure of exclusivity and also recognize the realities of the marketplace. Even so, with a sports-car market that’s increasingly crowded, thanks to the arrival of the Nissan 350Z and Mazda RX-8, that goal looks ambitious. Consider Chrysler’s last foray into the realm of limited-production high-profile cars, the Prowler: 2631 copies went out the door in 2000, its best sales year.

Then again, to understate things a trifle, the Crossfire is a far better effort than the Prowler, which was essentially a kit car with a factory warranty. And an expensive kit car at that. The Crossfire, starting at a healthy $34,495, is solid goods, with never a quiver from its railroad-trestle chassis, and its formidable foundations—Chrysler claims a body-shell rigidity number north of 51 hertz, which would be consistent with an Abrams tank—are clad in some of the most seductive sheetmetal we’ve seen in this era of uninhibited styles. Christina Aguilera has software in her closet that might attract more attention, but it would be close.

Although it’s clearly the stylish fastback exterior that’s going to get butts into the Crossfire’s bucket seats, it’s the Benz bones and powertrain that will be responsible for keeping them there to the point of actual purchase. The bones, as we’ve already suggested, are robust, with rigidity characteristics that are not entirely astonishing, in light of their origin: the same platform supports the Mercedes SLK-class roadster. The wheelbase of the two cars is identical at 94.5 inches, and the Crossfire interior-design team was limited by the same hard points: notably, the front and rear bulkheads, making the cockpit a little snug for drivers six feet or taller. More on this later.

Although the SLK is far from rubbery, its rigidity doesn’t compare with the Crossfire’s, which tells you something about cars with fixed roofs versus cars whose roofs are foldable. Chrysler says its coupe is stiffer than a Porsche 911, and our experiences provided nothing to refute this startling assertion. The design may be American, but there’s plenty of Teuton in the Crossfire’s backbone, and it knows how to follow orders.

The suspension pieces bolted to this mobile minicitadel are also from the Stuttgart parts bin. The upper front control arms are from the previous-generation E-class sedan, the lower from the C-class sedan (and SLK), and the multilink rear suspension is also from the SLK. Chrysler did make some adjustments to the foregoing, in part to accommodate the enormous (7.5-by-18-inch front, 9.0-by-19-inch rear) aluminum alloy wheels, in part to give the Crossfire its own dynamic persona. The coupe has a heftier rear anti-roll bar (19 millimeters versus 16) and firmer damping in its gas shocks.

Considering the bigger wheels (the biggest SLK wheels are 17-inchers), you might expect larger brake rotors tucked in behind them. But the cost-conscious development team stuck with the SLK320’s brakes: 11.8-inch vented front rotors, 10.9-inch solid rears, with four-channel ABS. And the parts-bin brakes obviously do a good job, arresting the car from 70 mph in 161 feet, with never a trace of fade.

This performance is as much a function of tires as it is of brakes. With the substantial contact patches and low profiles of its Michelin Pilot Sport tires—225/40ZR-18 front, 255/35ZR-19 rear—plus the support of those wide wheels, the Crossfire’s rubber does an excellent job of transferring braking power to the pavement. In light of this, we also expected pretty respectable lateral-g numbers, an expectation that was vindicated on the skidpad: 0.91 g. That’s better than any lateral-g number we’ve recorded for the Nissan 350Z and equal to the performance turned in by the new Mazda RX-8 in our April comparo “Rotary Revival.”

Plentiful grip combined with suspension tuning that strikes an acceptable balance between compliance and limited body roll make the Crossfire a generally eager, cooperative, and predictable companion for back-road banditry. Perhaps you noticed the qualifiers in there. Acceptable? Generally? Chrysler’s new coupe does stick to smooth pavement like sun-softened bubble gum, and understeer isn’t the dominating trait that it is in the Z, even though the Crossfire has a slightly higher forward weight bias: 54.5 percent of the 3111 pounds of our manual-shifting test car pressed down on the front wheels. The rear stays planted, unless the driver wants a little playful kick-out, which can be induced provided the electronic stability program is switched off. It’s also possible to drift the car across apexes without excess drama, but lurid power slides aren’t on the menu: There’s not enough muscle to overpower those big rear stickies.

On the other hand, it is possible to provoke rear-end wagging by hurrying the car around corners clad with broken or lumpy pavement. Although the tuning of the various suspension components is mostly harmonious, there are times when the shocks don’t quite keep pace with the springs. When that happens, the rear end can begin contributing more to the steering than the driver might really want. We wonder how much the mass of those big rear wheels—54 pounds each—contributes to this effect.

Steering is another soft point in the Crossfire’s dynamic menu. It’s the same recirculating-ball system used in the SLK, which translates as a little slow (3.1 turns lock to lock), a little heavy, and a little numb. The six-speed manual transmission is also SLK hardware, and it, too, leaves something to be desired, with its reluctant engagements and heavy-handed feel. But we prefer that to the leisurely responses and stick waggling that go with the Mercedes five-speed automatic, which has been adapted to Chrysler’s AutoStick manumatic controls.

We also think the manual will help you hustle your Crossfire to 60 mph a little quicker than the automatic, although we’re not entirely sure about this, since the engine-control program won’t allow unloaded revving beyond 4000 rpm, which inhibits launches. In any case, propelled by its 3.2-liter Mercedes V-6 (215 horsepower, 229 pound-feet of torque), the Crossfire surges to 60 in 6.5 seconds, to 100 in 16.1, and through the quarter-mile in 14.8 seconds at 96 mph. This is a wink quicker than we forecast in our May preview, but slower than the numbers posted by the Infiniti G35 and Mazda RX-8 in the “Rotary Revival” comparo and more than a second slower to 60 than the Z we tested in August 2002. You get the picture: No one could call it slow, but it’s not as quick as some key competitors. With a chassis capable of handling 300 horses, a power increase wouldn’t hurt this slick little coupe at all.

Another something that wouldn’t hurt is a little more longitudinal space in the cockpit. Taller drivers reported difficulties with achieving a comfortable combination of legroom and seatback angle. The steering wheel does adjust for reach, which helps, but a rake adjustment would help more.

Remarks related to roominess were mixed, but complaints related to rear sightlines were universal. The sweeping sail panels that flank the Crossfire’s sexy boattail hatchback severely limit the driver’s vision in the rear quarters, the back window looks like a smallish soft trapezoid in the inside mirror, and it gets even smaller when the retractable rear wing deploys at 57 mph. Chrysler says this device reduces lift at high speed. We can’t say for sure. We can say it reduces the rear view to a slot better suited to an armored personnel carrier.

Aside from space and sightline issues—and counterintuitive power-window switches—the Crossfire’s interior is a pleasant and stylish place to be. Chrysler has done a nice job of making relatively inexpensive materials look classy. The satin-finish brightwork of the dashboard center stack and the interior two-toning look spiffy, the leather-clad seats add an upscale touch, and if some of the secondary controls—for cruise, headlights, wipers, power seats—are obvious to us as Mercedes pieces, that may not be so obvious to folks who stop to check out the Crossfire up close and personal. And if it is obvious, there are worse automotive sins than using Mercedes fittings in a Chrysler.

At the end of the day, the Crossfire represents a little more friction between form and function than we’d expect from a company that prides itself on design. And even though it’s loaded with standard luxury features, it could use a little more thrust to justify its rather ambitious price. But this is nevertheless the most seductive Chrysler two-seater in recent memory. Suddenly, the Audi TT is yesterday’s news.

COUNTERPOINT

The Crossfire is a Mercedes SLK roadster in dressed-down form, the first fruit from Daimler’s purchase of Chrysler five years ago. It has radical styling, good power, and an interior that has lesser materials but is quite snazzy in color scheme and dashboard silverware. The structure is confidently solid—and the car is $11,000 less than the SLK320, although it’s essentially the same car without a fold-down roof. But somebody has goofed—I just do not fit in the driver’s seat. I can’t get comfortable, and my knees are right up on the edge of the dash, even though I’m only a hair over six feet. The SLK, oddly enough, fits me with a little room to spare. Go figure. —Steve Spence

The technology that underpins this stylish boattail coupe is about to be made obsolete by a new Mercedes-Benz SLK, but it is more than adequate to the needs of the Crossfire. And the big advantage of using existing (and paid for) vehicle mechanicals is that a Crossfire owner can enjoy the kind of performance—albeit it in a coupe instead of a convertible—that normally stickers somewhere in the mid-40s for about 10 grand less. (What price a three-pointed star?) As long as you aren’t six foot five, that makes the car a good deal. Unfortunately, the Crossfire shares its donor car’s pinched interior space, and that’s a disappointment. —Barry Winfield

If you are moved by the styling of this little two-seat coupe, there is nothing in its operation that should dissuade you from purchasing it. I’m moved by the looks—more in person than in photos. This surprisingly small vehicle has the compact visual power of a .38 snub-nose revolver. Mercedes SLK mechanicals, even if they’re getting a bit old, are still not a bad bunch of bits. The engine is smooth and the suspension reasonably comfy, and the switchgear feels quality. The only things that would prevent me from buying it are the Nissan 350Z, the Infiniti G35 coupe, the Mazda RX-8, and a (used) BMW M coupe—all of which are more fun to drive. —Daniel Pund
Old 09-17-2003, 02:22 PM
  #29  
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
426HP V8 Chrysler Crossfire from German Tuner




German-tuned Crossfire gets performance to match appearance


By AUTOWEEK


WITH ITS WILD COUPE V8 6.1, Startech—sister company to German tuner Brabus—is giving the Chrysler Crossfire the sort of performance its aggressive appearance suggests.

Shoehorned under the hood of the heavily reworked two-seater revealed in Frankfurt is a 6.1-liter V8 based on the 5.0-liter V8 used in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. In this guise, the three-valves-per-cylinder unit delivers 426 hp at 5400 rpm along with 449 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. That’s up 208 hp and 225 lb-ft on the Crossfire’s standard 3.2-liter V6 and enough, according to Startech, to give the car 0-to-62-mph acceleration in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 186 mph.

Beefier suspension, bigger brakes and a larger automatic rear wing help the car cope with the added power. Base price for the car and modifications is a cool $107,000.
Old 09-17-2003, 02:22 PM
  #30  
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Crossfire is not even available yet and we get this... Interesting.
Old 09-17-2003, 02:29 PM
  #31  
I Feel Too Old Here
 
ItalianStallion's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2002
Age: 44
Posts: 5,100
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
i saw one the other day 3rd ive seen on the road, its def available.
Old 09-17-2003, 02:32 PM
  #32  
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
Originally posted by ItalianStallion
i saw one the other day 3rd ive seen on the road, its def available.
Is it available in Europe though?
Old 09-17-2003, 02:45 PM
  #33  
I Feel Too Old Here
 
ItalianStallion's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2002
Age: 44
Posts: 5,100
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
i dunno.
Old 09-17-2003, 02:47 PM
  #34  
I Feel Too Old Here
 
ItalianStallion's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2002
Age: 44
Posts: 5,100
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
i will have to say, that thing is really bad ass though. i wouldnt buy it unless i already had all the sub 100k cars i really want.
Old 09-17-2003, 05:51 PM
  #35  
Banned
 
Red Nj-s's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: central jerzey
Age: 38
Posts: 5,547
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
schweeeet
Old 09-17-2003, 08:30 PM
  #36  
Suzuka Master
 
NOVAwhiteTypeS's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2000
Location: Northern VA
Age: 43
Posts: 7,601
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
that things some how reminded me of the SL500 on the road
Old 09-17-2003, 09:55 PM
  #37  
Safety Car
 
bkknight369's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: Renton, WA
Age: 42
Posts: 3,989
Received 15 Likes on 14 Posts
crossfire looks alrite...i guess...but not for the price they are asking...for that much i'd rather get a z4 3.0 or an s2000 + a few cool mods
Old 09-18-2003, 08:14 AM
  #38  
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
 
gavriil's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes on 8 Posts
For $107K I have better ideas
Old 09-18-2003, 09:30 AM
  #39  
Instructor
 
neoprufrok's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: Bay Area, California
Posts: 208
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I agree with gavril.
Like an rs6 with some mods
Like a soon to be M5
Like e55
Old 09-18-2003, 10:07 AM
  #40  
Doin' da crack shuffle
 
Red-CL's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: Philly and Bowie
Age: 46
Posts: 10,847
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Originally posted by Red Nj-s
schweeeet



Quick Reply: Chrysler Crossfire News **Production to end this summer (page 5)**



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 06:35 PM.