Chrysler and Jeep Tease with Pre-Detroit Auto Show Concepts

Chrysler Super GT Teases Sports Car Enthusiasts

Is Chrysler attempting to reinvent its image or what? Reinstating the elegant, refined, yet powerful brand standard of

The Firepower looks as fast as its 425 horsepower 6.1-liter HEMI V8 is. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

days gone by, the Firepower (now only a code name as it is not available) looks as fast as its 425 horsepower 6.1-liter HEMI V8 is. This new "grand tourer" concept is based on the Viper, 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 yesterday. Its estimated top speed is no less than 298 km/h (185 mph), but its Viper suspension has

Chrysler's "Corvette fighter" supercar is not only performance oriented, but replete with luxurious touches. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

been softened to create a ride similar to that of an Aston Martin, added Creed.

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

Don't get too excited though, as Chrysler's Corvette fighter is "purely a concept vehicle" according to Creed. "Sometimes the design department has to put things out there they would love to build," the design head added, "But they don't control the purse-strings."