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Used Chrysler Crossfire Overview And How To Buy At The Best Price
The head-turning Chrysler Crossfire, introduced in 2004, was the first much anticipated result of the Daimler/Chrysler merger. And it surely was an intriguing blend of German engineering and American style. And they still can be found out there.
Produced through the 2008 model year, this 2-seat coupe or roadster convertible was primarily based on the Mercedes SLK. Initially, the Chrysler Crossfire was only offered as a coupe. The convertible made its debut for the 2005 model year.
Under the hood, the standard engine during the entire production run was a Mercedes 3.2-liter six-cylinder with an output of 215 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. Used Crossover shoppers have a choice in transmissions of either the standard 6-speed manual or the optional 5-speed automatic.
Of particular interest to many is the Crossfire SRT-6 which was produced for just two model years, 2005 and 2006. Powering the SRT-6, and mated with a sport-tuned suspension and a 5-speed automatic transmission, was a supercharged engine that was good for a healthy 330-horsepower that was paired with a five-speed automatic. This version of the Crossover has serious straightline performance. It should be noted, however, that this added performance does make the ride a bit rougher.
Used Chrysler Crossfire shoppers should also note that thare was only one trim level available in 2004 and it included leather upholstery and was generally quite well-equipped with other standard features, including full power accessories, heated and power front seats (8-way driver, 4-way passenger), heated outside mirrors, dual-zone climate control, one-touch power windows, a leather steering wheel, a telescopic steering column, heated front windshield jets, a rear anti-roll bar, four-wheel antilock brakes with BrakeAssist, side airbags, traction control, stability control and a 240-watt 6-speaker audio system with an in-dash CD player.
For 2005, the Crossfire was available in base and Limited trims. The base then came with cloth upholstery and a reduced number of standard features, while the Limited added such features as the power and heated leather seats, an upgraded 8-speaker Infinity sound system, additional sound insulation, a tire-pressure monitor and a number of upgraded trim accents. Used Crossfire Limited shoppers should also note that some of these models can be found with the optional DVD-based navigation system.
In addition to its engine and suspension upgrades, the SRT6 also came with 18-inch front wheels and 19-inch rear wheels along with pearl leather seats with suede inserts.
Also found in the used market are base models with the optional Special Edition package which was available for the 2006 and 2007 model years. It included exterior Inferno Red Crystal Pearl paint, a black windshield surround, Dark Slate Gray cloth upholstery, SRT6-like cast-aluminum wheels and satin silver door handles and side louvers. For 2008, its last year of production, the Crossfire came in just the Limited trim.
Gas mileage for the Crossfire is an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city and 25 on the highway with the manual transmission and 21 city and 28 highway with the automatic. Fuel economy for the SRT-6 comes in at 17 and 24, respectively.
Standard safety features on all Crossfires include side airbags, antilock brakes with brake assist, stability control and traction control, while a tire pressure monitor is standard on the Limited.
What are some of the Crossfire's negatives?
Sadly, while the Chrysler Crossfire debuted with a great styling and a lot of potential, many of its problem areas were not addressed over the years. Both the aged recirculating-ball steering and 215-hp V6 were simply not very competitive in this segment, meaning its handling is simply subpar in this sporty segment. What's more, the ride quality can be fairly harsh, particularly in the SRT-6.
And in addition to a cramped interior, its cabin design is also dated, looking more like what we might expect in pre-2000 models. We have to remember that the Crossfire found its origin from the Mercedes SLK which debuted in 1997.
But on the plus side:
Its German genes have carried over into a solidly built car. And while the steering system leaves much to be desired, it nevertheless has great road grip when cornering. The car's acceleration is about on par for the segment, while the straight-line performance of the SRT-6 is downright blazing.
And of course, there's the head-turning design that is truly sports car-like, while its now relatively inexpensive price tag is another appeal.
Overall, the Chrysler Crossfire may best fit those who want a great looking and adequately performing car at an attractive price, while waiting to own something pricier that drives as well as it looks.
How To Get The Best Price
There are actually several different ways to buy a used Crossfire at the lowest price, and even at wholesale. You can click on the links to each of the following methods to get the specific instructions.
First of all, here's a Lowest Price Used Car Buying Guide that details a super effective method, one that often beats down prices even to wholesale levels. And somewhat related to this, here's another excellent method that identifies Price-Distressed Cars Right On Dealer Lots. These are vehicles they are so desperate to unload they would welcome your wholesale offer.
In addition, you can also try the Public Car Auctions in your own geographic area. While there can be a lot of junk vehicles at these auctions, there are often absolute gems sprinkled in as well. This article reviews what to expect at open-to-the-public car auctions and how to locate them in your own area.
Also ... for those of you who might be interested in a brand new car, if the price was crazy good, here's info on exactly How To Get The Best Price On A New Car, Truck Or SUV. This works just phenomenally well.
