2005 Chrysler Crossfire Trims and Specs

The Chrysler Crossfire entered its second year of production in 2005, adding a convertible and this more affordable base model. The Crossfire was largely inspired by the discontinued Mercedes SLK, and it is built with 40% Mercedes parts. The two coupes shared a chassis, drive train, and several interior components.

The Base Crossfire loses some of last year's included features, but both the coupe and convertible still come standard with stability and traction control, a CD audio system, full power accessories, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control.

All four Crossfires are powered by a 3.2 liter SOHC V-6, which generates 215 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. On this Base trim, only the six-speed manual transmission is offered. The Crossfire will reach 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds, and brake from 60 mph to a stop in 117 feet. The EPA estimate for all models is 17/25 mpg.

Caveats for the 2005 model are as follows: the audio system will not read Mp3s, seating is tight, and the rear visibility is non-existent. There are few complaints with regard to styling and performance.

The Chrysler Crossfire entered its second year of production in 2005, with four models to choose from. A convertible and two trim levels were added. The new Limited trim was similar to last year's only model, and is differentiated from the Base by many upscale touches.

In addition to standard features like ABS with BrakeAssist, traction and stability control, full power accessories and dual-zone climate control, the Limited featured several appearance upgrades. Exclusive features included rubber-studded aluminum pedals, leather seats, silver-trimmed speaker grilles, fog lamps, and satin silver finish door handles and fender vents. The Limited also came equipped with a six-speaker Infinity Modulus audio upgrade, cabin air filter, power/heated seats, and a tire pressure monitor.

The power plant was the same across the board: a Mercedes-designed 3.2 liter SOHC V-6, which generated 215 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. Buyers had a choice of transmissions on this upper level trim: a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual.

Many owners have reported that the Mercedes elements are very apparent in the Crossfire's overall presentation. The inclusion of higher-quality materials has quelled previous complaints about poor build quality, and the coupe races down the highway with a aptly muted cabin. Tight interior space, poor rear visibility, and unresponsive steering are all common complaints.

The Crossfire Convertible was a new model for 2005, as Chrysler expanded the lineup to include four models. Both body styles were now offered in Base and Limited trims, and the difference between the two was approximately $2000.

The Base Crossfire was well-equipped, with dual-zone climate control, a CD audio system, full power accessories, ABS with Brake Assist, a power top and traction control all standard. Some of the Limited trim's options were available, but this model was not eligible for the navigation system.

The Crossfire represented the first collaboration between Chrysler and Merecedes, and the German luxury automaker supplied the engine. This 3.2 liter SOHC V-6 provided the 3000 pound Crossfire with 215 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, sending it from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. Both Base models were only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

In 2004, Chrysler received many complaints about the inclusion of cheap-looking interior materials. The new Base model will bring the same complaints, only more so. The Limited offers a more upscale finish, with real chrome and aluminum touches, but the Base uses a lot of plastic. Testers and owners agree that the Crossfire is fun to drive, thanks to agile handling and very brisk acceleration.

The Crossfire represents the first engineering union between Chrysler and Mercedes Benz. The two-seat coupe and convertible borrow many design and build elements from the recently retired generation of the Mercedes SLK. Both cars share the same chassis and drive train, and Mercedes even supplied the engine.

In 2004, only one Crossfire model was offered: a well-equipped coupe. This year, Chrysler unveiled four distinct models, created through two trims and two body styles. The Convertible is new this year, as is the upscale Limited trim. Chrysler also offered a SRT-6 Crossfire for 2005, but that upgrade creates a separate model.

The Limited Crossfire comes equipped with all the Base features, like dual-zone climate control, full power accessories, traction and stability control, and ABS with BrakeAssist. Added items for this trim are satin silver exterior trim, an Infinity six-speaker audio system, a tire pressure monitor, homelink, and fog lamps. Both convertibles come with a power top.

Just like the Base Crossfire, the Limited is powered by a 3.2 liter SOHC V-6. On this trim, the engine can ben mated to either a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission. The V-6 delivers 215 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, propelling the 3000 pound coupe from 0 to 60 in 6.8 seconds. braking distance is also impressive: 60 to 0 in 117 feet. The Crossfire has an EPA estimate of 17/25 mpg with the manual transmission.