The 2005 Chrysler Crossfire roadster is offered with one engine mated to either of two transmissions, not counting the high-powered Crossfire SRT-6 model. Under the grooved hood is a 3.2-liter V6 engine connected to a six-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic.

The Crossfire's Mercedes-sourced V6 weighs in with 215 hp at 5,700 rpm and 229 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm, resulting in GT-class quickness. Zero to sixty acceleration times are estimated at about seven seconds, give or take a tick, and while terminal speed is not advertised, Chrysler says that the Crossfire roadster has been tested at 150 mph. This year, the Crossfire's onboard ESP (Electronic Stability Control Program) and traction control systems have been recalibrated to be more enthusiast-friendly and unobtrusive.

The 3.2-liter V6 matched to the six-speed manual results in a silky driveline. The shifter's throws are not particularly short, but have a positive feel. Positive, too, is the gearing, which meshes well with the V6's wide power band. Slip the clutch and release a smooth flow of torque at the low end, and there's plenty of pedal response at speed. With six cylinders and six gears to work with, the engine feels and sounds relaxed at highway speeds. The rear wing deploys automatically at 60 mph, and can also be raised manually.

Suspension is fully independent; double wishbones in front combined with a five-link rear. Steering is nicely balanced with a progressive boost despite the use of antiquated recirculating-ball rather than modern rack-and-pinion steering, and the Crossfire roadster feels well planted when cornering. Part of the credit for this handling prowess goes to the tire choice. The Continental SportContact tires are notable for both their stickiness and ride comfort. That comfortable ride quality compares favorably with Crossfire's competition and, while it's hard to measure on California's mostly placid pavement, there seems to be less cowl shake, rattle and roll in the Crossfire roadster than there is in most convertibles. On the whole, performance cuts a nice balance. The 2005 Chrysler Crossfire is neither a flat-out, full-bore sports car nor a floaty, boaty cruiser.

Photography: © Dan Lyons 2004