The Chrysler Crossfire Roadster SRT-6 3.2i, produced from 2004 to 2006, represented the high-performance variant of Chrysler’s unique two-seat roadster. Built on a shortened version of the Mercedes-Benz SLK platform (R170), the Crossfire aimed to inject a dose of sporty flair into the Chrysler lineup. The SRT-6 model, equipped with a supercharged 3.2-liter V6 engine and an automatic transmission, was positioned as the flagship offering, delivering significantly more power and performance than the base 2.0-liter inline-four versions. It was a relatively short-lived model, but left a distinct mark as Chrysler’s attempt at a European-style sports car for the American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Crossfire |
| Generation | Crossfire Roadster |
| Type (Engine) | SRT-6 3.2i V6 (330 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.9 l/100 km (14.8 US mpg, 17.8 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.0 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg, 25.7 UK mpg, 9.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 264 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.0 sec |
| Maximum speed | 255 km/h (158.45 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 220.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 280.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 330 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 103.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 3500 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M112 E32 |
| Engine displacement | 3199 cm3 (195.21 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.2 l (11.83 US qt | 9.85 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1495 kg (3295.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1755 kg (3869.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 260 kg (573.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 105 l (3.71 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 190 l (6.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4060 mm (159.84 in.) |
| Width | 1765 mm (69.49 in.) |
| Height | 1305 mm (51.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.3 m (33.79 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Front tires | 225/40 R18 |
| Rear tires | 255/35 R19 |
| Front wheel rims | 7.5J x 18 |
| Rear wheel rims | 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Crossfire SRT-6 is the M112 E32 3.2-liter V6 engine, sourced from Mercedes-Benz. This engine is notable for its supercharger, an Eaton Roots-type blower, which provides instant boost and a linear power delivery. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust). The supercharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to mitigate heat soak and maintain consistent performance. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels. The automatic transmission used is a five-speed unit, also sourced from Mercedes-Benz. While not a dual-clutch transmission, it was programmed for relatively quick shifts, though it lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The SRT-6 offered a significantly different driving experience compared to the base Crossfire. The supercharged V6 delivered strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did detract slightly from the sporty feel. Gear ratios were tuned for acceleration rather than outright fuel economy. The rear-wheel-drive layout provided a balanced feel, but the relatively short wheelbase could make the car feel somewhat twitchy at the limit. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Crossfire, the SRT-6 automatic felt less engaging, but offered greater ease of use for everyday driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The SRT-6 came standard with a generous amount of equipment. Interior features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. Exterior features included unique SRT-6 badging, a more aggressive front fascia, and larger wheels and tires. Optional extras included a navigation system, upgraded audio, and various cosmetic enhancements. The interior design, while influenced by Mercedes-Benz, featured a distinctive, somewhat angular aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The Crossfire Roadster SRT-6 utilized a double wishbone suspension at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. The suspension was tuned for a firmer ride than the base models, providing better handling and stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The SRT-6 also included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The rear brakes were discs, a step up from the drums found on some lower trim levels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crossfire SRT-6 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While the engine and performance were widely praised, the car’s styling and interior quality were often criticized. Fuel economy was also a concern, with combined figures around 21.4 US mpg. Compared to other sports cars in its price range, such as the Porsche Boxster and BMW Z4, the Crossfire SRT-6 offered a unique blend of American muscle and European engineering, but often fell short in terms of refinement and overall driving experience. The base Crossfire models, with their smaller engines, were more focused on fuel efficiency and affordability.
Legacy
The Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6, despite its relatively short production run, has gained a following among enthusiasts. The supercharged V6 engine is known for its reliability, although regular maintenance is crucial. The car’s unique styling and limited production numbers have contributed to its collectibility. Today, well-maintained examples can command a premium in the used car market. While not a mainstream success, the Crossfire SRT-6 remains a distinctive and memorable chapter in Chrysler’s history, representing a bold attempt to create a world-class sports car.
