In the event that common sense, prudence and electronic intervention fail to prevent or avoid a crash, the Crossfire is well
equipped to protect those within. Next-Generation driver and front-passenger airbags and door-mounted side-supplemental airbags are standard equipment, as is a driver's side knee bolster intended to properly position the driver in the event of airbag deployment. Much has already been written about the 2004/2005 Crossfire, praising its performance and lauding its value - some of it by yours truly. What I hoped to do in my report on the roadster version is adequately convey its outstanding road manners; but more importantly convey how much fun it is to drive when the roof is nowhere in sight.
This is an entertaining car, not a practical car. A trip to Costco is pretty much out of the question and only one passenger at a time can share in the Crossfire experience. But a roadster isn't about hauling freight, human or otherwise; it's about sunny days, clear nights and twisty backroads, all of which adds up to a sun-sational new edition to the roadster rivalry.
Specifications:
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| Practicality takes a back seat to important things such as sunny days, clear nights and twisty backroads. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
This is an entertaining car, not a practical car. A trip to Costco is pretty much out of the question and only one passenger at a time can share in the Crossfire experience. But a roadster isn't about hauling freight, human or otherwise; it's about sunny days, clear nights and twisty backroads, all of which adds up to a sun-sational new edition to the roadster rivalry.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP): $51,595 - $54,595
- Body Type: 2-door convertible, unitized steel
- Layout: front engine, RWD
- Engine: 215-hp, 229 lb-ft, 3.2-L, 18-valve, SOHC V6
- Transmission: 6-spd manual (opt 5-spd auto with manual mode)
- Performance (0-100 km/h): 6.5 seconds
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight (manual - auto): 1,424 - 1,440 kg (3,140 - 3,174 lbs)
- Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,059 / 1,766 / 1,315 / 2,400 mm (159.8 / 69.5 / 51.8 / 94.5 in)
- Seating Cap: 2
- Cargo Volume (top up/down): 190 / 104 L (6.5 / 3.6 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (estimated city/hwy): 13.8 / 9.4 L/100 km (17 / 25 mpg) (manual)
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 84/115,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Audi TT Roadster, BMW Z4, MazdaSpeed MX-5 Miata, Mercedes-Benz SLK, Nissan 350Z Roadster, Porsche Boxster
- Web Site: www.chrysler.ca
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