Chrysler Crossfire Is a Future Collectible, Affordable for Now
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It’s difficult to predict which modern cars will become collectible over the next decade or two, but one that has a very good chance is the Chrysler Crossfire. A product of the Daimler-Chrysler merger that began in 1998 and lasted until 2007, the Crossfire debuted in 2004, following a 2001 concept car.
2004 Chrysler Crossfire Limited Coupe
A Fastback Like No Other
Initially, the Crossfire was only available in coupe form. Its distinctive fastback roof, broad rear fenders, and blunt rear fascia evoked an Art Deco look. That style was polarizing—some auto enthusiasts found it unique while others were vocal about their disapproval. Detractors said the Crossfire resembled a Nash from the early 1950s.
2005 Chrysler Crossfire Convertible
For the 2004 model year, there were 25,123 cars produced—of which 2,322 were right-hand drive models for Europe. While Chrysler designers penned the exterior, components beneath the skin were all Mercedes. The rear-wheel drive Crossfire shares its Mercedes R170 platform with the first-generation SLK320 roadster. The two cars use the same engine, transmission, suspension, and chassis structure, as well as interior design elements.
The Base and Limited models feature a Mercedes’ 3.2-liter, 18-valve, SOHC V6 producing 215 horsepower. The standard gearbox was a six-speed manual, but a five-speed automatic was available.
Crossfire SRT-6 and Ragtop Arrive in 2005
The Chrysler Crossfire's sales figures grew by more than 10,000 units in 2005, thanks to the introduction of two new models. A two-seat sports roadster joined the coupe, along with the highly-desired SRT-6 model in both coupe and roadster body styles. Intended for the performance audience, the SRT featured an AMG - opens in new window or tab. supercharged engine that delivered 330 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
Other enhancements included tuned suspension and brake systems, front air dam, and a fixed rear spoiler (versus the standard model’s automatic retractable spoiler). The SRT was nearly two seconds quicker than the base model’s 6.4 second 0-60 mph time—and top speed was electronically limited to 155 miles per hour.
Sales of the Crossfire dramatically dropped for the remainder of its life. The unsold inventory near the end of 2005 was so high that that Chrysler listed cars on Overstock.com just to clear them out. Production finally came to an end in 2008 with just 1,786 produced in the final year.
2005 Crossfire Roadster Limited
Chrysler Crossfires on eBay
These days, there are usually a number of Crossfires listed on eBay - opens in new window or tab., with a good mix of coupes and convertibles. Most are low-mileage examples that appear to have been babied during their lifetime, with bids not exceeding about $16,000. A scan of the Internet shows, via owners’ groups and blogs, that there are many Crossfire enthusiasts. They report the cars are fairly reliable. The most significant downside relates to convertibles; the glass rear window has a tendency to become separated from the fabric top. Most owners say the Crossfire is an absolute blast to drive.
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