It is seen here at Twin Ring Motegi Super Speedway.
Photos of a prototype of the Chrysler Crossfire Concept were released to the public at the same time that it was announced that it would be made commercially available.
Since the chassis components were appropriated from the then-affiliated Mercedes-Benz SLK320, the production model was completed only two years later in 2003.
The Crossfire production model was significantly miniaturized to match the SLK chassis, and the front end design was changed to facilitate production efficiency and to accommodate the safety standards of different countries. However, the character line running through the center of the body - the car's identifying mark - and its characteristic rear design were fully retained.
In production, Karmann of Germany who has the expertise in building complex body shapes, and who was located strategically better for supplying parts from Mercedes-Benz, performed the production. The Crossfire became a U.S./German joint production, using German parts and produced in Germany.
Huge wheels, and rear wheels are bigger in size than the front wheels.
Regarding mechanical components, everything from the 214 HP, 3.2-liter/V6 SOHC engine and transmission to the differential gears is exactly the same as the SLK320. The two cars also have a common wheelbase, and the suspension and brakes are also the same. The only point of difference is that the SLK320's 17-in. front and rear tires were changed to 18-in. for the front and 19-in. for the back.
Be that as it may, with its significant improvement in body rigidity and enhanced aerodynamic performance, performance-wise the Crossfire is clearly the superior sports car. A roadster model was also added to the lineup in 2004.
Well, and with this post, it's goodbye for now (at least) to GT4 as the PS2 console is abandoned to winter in my summer villa aka cabin in the swamps.
