Chrysler Kicks Off New Year in Style by Unveiling All-New 2004 Crossfire

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 3 -- America's classic Route 66 and Germany's legendary Autobahn are two of the most famous roads in the world. Next year, you'll be able to merge on to either in Chrysler's all-new 2004 Crossfire, a sports coupe that combines American design with German engineering.

``Chrysler Crossfire is the sports coupe of the future, it's an American dream machine come true,'' said Dieter Zetsche, President and CEO of the Chrysler Group. ``Following the footsteps of Dodge Viper and Chrysler PT Cruiser, it's a great concept-to-reality story that combines head-turning design with world class engineering.

``Chrysler Crossfire symbolizes what this merger is all about,'' continued Zetsche. ``It's a great example of what we call disciplined pizzazz, or the ability to bring a got-to-have-it vehicle to market profitably by working together, combining strengths, and effectively leveraging resources. Chrysler Crossfire represents the future of the Chrysler brand as it incorporates proven quality and technology in a stunning wrapper.''

The 2004 Chrysler Crossfire is a low-slung, two seat coupe with a carved, sculptured appearance. Under the 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.

In early 2003, Chrysler will build Crossfire in 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.

Further details of the all-new Chrysler Crossfire coupe will be released later in 2002.

Following are ``at-a-glance'' features offered in 2004 Chrysler Crossfire:

3.2-litre, 18-valve, SOHC V-6 engine 215 horsepower, 229 ft.-lb. torque Six-speed manual transmission or Five-speed electronically controlled adaptive automatic transmission Rear-wheel drive Four-wheel antilock brakes with front power 300 x 28 mm ventilated disc brakes and rear power 278 x 9 mm solid disc brakes Electronic Stability Program which integrates single brake application and throttle intervention for yaw control, ignition and throttle intervention for wheelspin 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 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 Tow away protection Manually telescoping steering column Speed-sensitive deployable rear spoiler Six speaker sound system with dual subwoofers Front 18-inch P225/40 VR tires Rear 19-inch P255/35 VR tires Aluminum alloy wheels