Chrysler Crossfire/SRT6 2007
January 1, 2007
Taking the proven hardware of a Mercedes-Benz SLK and repackaging it in a dramatically styled, lower-priced coupe sounds like a great idea. Even if that hardware is one generation out of date, it is nonetheless perfectly suitable, particularly when the engineering development necessary to create the Chrysler Crossfire yields incidental improvements. In this case, great body rigidity. The Crossfire is built in Germany by coachbuilders Wilhelm Karmann, which explains its excellent fit and finish. Karmann also had a large hand in tuning the chassis and the calibrations of the electronic stability control system, while Chrysler was responsible for the swoopy exterior design. The V-6 engine, transmissions (6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic), major suspension units, and even the basic understructure come from Mercedes parts bins. The AMG-developed 330 hp, 158 mph Crossfire SRT6 has been dropped and will be available as a leftover 2006 model if any remain in stock.
PRICE: $40,500
ENGINE: 3.2-liter sohc V-6
TRANSMISSION: 6-speed manual
POWER: 215 hp at 5,700 rpm
TORQUE: 229 ft lbs at 3,000 rpm
CURB WEIGHT: 3,140 lbs
0-60 MPH: 5.3 seconds
TOP SPEED: 140 mph (estimated)
PROS: Unique style on a solid German base
CONS: Confined cockpit, hard ride on less-than-perfect pavement
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