2005 Chrysler Firepower Concept

In my opinion, Chrysler needs to reinstate the elegant, refined, yet powerful brand standard of days gone by, and the Firepower looks as fast

In my opinion, Chrysler needs to reinstate the elegant, refined, yet powerful brand standard of days gone by. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

as its 425-horsepower 6.1-litre HEMI V8 is, even when static. This new "grand tourer" concept is based on Viper chassis architecture, in a similar fashion to how Ford has developed its new GR-1 concept off of the back of its GT supercar.

The Firepower is a "Corvette fighter", commented Chrysler group senior vice president of design Trevor Creed to journalists when the conceptual drawing was released back in November. Zero to 100 km/h takes less than 4.5 seconds while its estimated top speed is no less than 282 km/h (175 mph), but its Viper suspension has been softened to create a ride similar to that of an Aston Martin, added Creed.

Similar to Mercedes-Benz's top-tier AMG supercar lineup, the Firepower uses a variation of the same 5-speed automatic transmission with manual-mode actuation.

Suitably, Chrysler's supercar concept is not only performance-oriented but replete with luxurious touches. Strictly a two-seater, it boasts a tinted glass roof that extends to the rear liftgate, giving occupants an airy, spacious cabin.

While Creed originally stated that Chrysler's Corvette fighter was "purely a concept vehicle" back in November, he was quite clear during its introduction

Suitably, Chrysler's supercar concept is not only performance-oriented but replete with luxurious touches. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

that something very similar could be built if reaction was positive. Hmmm... this is exactly the kind of information that puts auto journalists into a frenzy of speculation. Yes, once again the execs from Chrysler's Auburn Hills headquarters not only managed to stir up the emotions of all present in the Cobo Hall crowd due to the beauty of this particular concept, but also because the potential for such an exquisitely designed concept car going into production from a domestic automaker is almost too exciting to contemplate. Just think about it. This isn't an Aston Martin. It's not even a Jaguar. No, this is a Chrysler, and because of that, no matter how beautiful it is nor how well equipped, no matter how quick it accelerates nor how deft it's handling, an average person with a decent job could probably afford it if Chrysler built it en masse.