Chrysler Crossfire: 'Modern American,' Sports Youthful,
International Flair
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Jan. 9 The Chrysler Crossfire concept
car features a sophisticated design blending traditional European proportions
and handling characteristics with the power and personality of an American
performance car.
"The Crossfire concept provides a new image for Chrysler, combining
American power with international flair," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice
President - Product Design, DaimlerChrysler Corporation, at the 2001 North
American International Auto Show in Detroit.
"The expressive execution of this small coupe is tangible proof of our
capability to elevate and broaden the Chrysler brand. From its distinct
design to its potent powertrain and suspension, this modern American coupe is
set to impress enthusiasts around the world."
A classic, clean design with a decidedly youthful flavor is reflected in
the concept's sleek, athletic lines. The sculptured hood focuses attention on
the Chrysler winged badge and new grille.
Built as a one-piece carbon fiber body on an all-aluminum frame, the
Crossfire's design seems to be more architectural than traditionally
automotive. Similar to the Chrysler Atlantic concept car shown first in 1995,
a center peak line, or "spine," runs the length of the car and works with the
dynamic character lines to give the Chrysler Crossfire its chiseled
appearance. Its compact body suggests a low center of gravity and stable
stance with a long wheelbase (102.6 inches, 2606 mm) and wide track (58.3
inches, 1481 mm front, 59.9 inches, 1521 mm rear).
Highlighted by brushed aluminum details, the Crossfire's exterior design
features a "boat tail" emphasizing the rear wheels, tires and wide fenders,
which is a new direction for the Chrysler brand. Artistically inspired shapes
continue in the wheels, as the eight-spoke design reinforces the vehicle's
sure-footed, grounded look. The concept is executed in a "Sapphire Silver
Pearl" finish with "Starbrite Silver" accents.
"If we were to build it, I feel sure that this could be an instant
classic," said Creed.
"The Crossfire provides the performance and precise handling that would
make this concept a real contender on the street or on the track," said
exterior designer Eric Stoddard. "The inspiration stemmed from a desire to
blend pure sculpture with technology. We designed the Crossfire for anyone
who is looking for the thrill of driving. It's light, nimble and powerful
with an expressive personality."
The Chrysler Crossfire is powered by a supercharged 2.7-liter, 275
horsepower (205 kW), 270 lb.-ft. (366 Nm) V-6 engine coupled to a five-speed
manual transmission. The custom independent short-and-long-arm front and rear
suspension uses coil springs placed over the shock absorbers. Nineteen-inch
front wheels with P255/40R19 tires and 21-inch rear wheels with P295/35R21
tires provide the ride and handling expected from a classic rear-wheel-drive
coupe. The Crossfire is estimated to achieve 60 mph (97 kph) in 5.8 seconds
and a top speed of 148 mph (238 kph).
"The Chrysler Crossfire was engineered with performance and artistic
expression in mind," said Stoddard. "The powertrain and suspension system
validate the concept's personality as an agile athlete, while design features
beg for individual interpretation. Its design forces people to react and
reflect simultaneously."
The Crossfire's sophisticated interior complements its exterior. The
interior design effort was lead by Glenn Abbott, who said he aspired to create
the feeling of a stylish sports coupe with a sense of control, accuracy and
simplicity.
"I was able to give it a serious, enthusiast's appeal, yet add significant
character to it," said Abbott. "That's most evident in the design of the
carefully crafted instrument panel gauges, as well as the shape of the
steering wheel and seats."
The Crossfire houses an on-board vehicle data acquisition center. This
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) captures vehicle performance
information and displays it on a passenger-side liquid crystal display. "We
like to refer to this as the 'G-Meter,'" said Abbott.
Appealing to the true enthusiast, the EVIC measures such factors as
acceleration, lap time and g-forces, allowing the driver to assess and,
thereby enhance the vehicle's optimal performance.
A true two-seater, the Crossfire features electronically adjustable
competition seats, manually adjustable pedals and integrated trunk space for
two helmets, which further emphasize this concept's spirited theme.
Crossfire's interior sports a rich spectrum of colors and materials,
accented by a two-tone "Deep Sapphire Blue" and "Cedar Tan" leather interior,
featuring a brushed aluminum spine-like center console and brushed accents on
the steering wheel.
"The Chrysler Crossfire concept perfectly harmonizes international flair
with modern American design," concluded Creed.
Chrysler Crossfire Preliminary Specifications
POWERTRAIN
Engine: 2.7-liter V-6 supercharged
Estimated Power: 275 bhp (205 kW)
Estimated Torque: 270 lb.-ft. (366 Nm)
Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission
Drive: Rear-wheel drive
BODY & SUSPENSION
Structure: One-piece carbon fiber body webbed to aluminum
frame
Suspension
Front: Custom independent short-and-long-arm (SLA) with
coil-over-shock setup
Back: Custom independent short-and-long-arm (SLA) with
coil-over-shock setup
WHEELS & TIRES
Wheels
Front: 19" x 8"
Rear: 21" x 11"
Tires
Front: P255/40R19
Rear: P295/35R21
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
Length: 156.4 in. (3972 mm)
Width: 72.4 in. (1839 mm)
Height: 51.3 in. (1303 mm)
Wheelbase: 102.6 in. (2606 mm)
Track
Front: 58.3 in. (1481 mm)
Rear: 59.9 in. (1521 mm)
Overhang
Front: 25.4 in. (645 mm)
Rear: 28.4 in. (721 mm)
Weight: 2900 lbs. (1315 kg)
ESTIMATED PERFORMANCE
0-60 mph (0-97 kph): 5.8 sec
Top Speed: 148 mph (238 kph)
Quarter Mile, Standing Start 13.9 sec @ 102 mph (163 kph)
