The Chrysler Sebring Coupe (ST-22) 2.4i 16V, produced from 2001 to 2007, represented a distinct offering within the Sebring lineup. Positioned as a sporty alternative to the Sebring sedan, the coupe aimed to attract a younger demographic with its two-door configuration and more aggressive styling. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.4-liter inline-four engine producing 147 horsepower, served as a mid-range option, bridging the gap between the base models and any potential higher-performance trims. It was primarily marketed towards the North American market, where the coupe segment still held some appeal, offering a blend of affordability and style.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Sebring |
| Generation | Sebring Coupe (ST-22) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i 16V (147 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 147 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 214 Nm @ 4000 rpm (157.84 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2351 cm3 (143.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4830 mm (190.16 in.) |
| Width | 1785 mm (70.28 in.) |
| Height | 1365 mm (53.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2635 mm (103.74 in.) |
| Front track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Sebring Coupe 2.4i is the 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine, internally designated within Chrysler’s engine family. This engine, a naturally aspirated unit, utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system to deliver fuel to the cylinders. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating 16 valves (four per cylinder) to optimize airflow and enhance volumetric efficiency. The 9:1 compression ratio was a common specification for this era, balancing performance and fuel economy. The engine’s 147 horsepower peak at 5500 rpm, and 214 Nm (157.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm, provided adequate power for everyday driving. The standard transmission for this variant was a 5-speed manual, although an automatic transmission was also available, impacting performance slightly.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4-liter engine, paired with the 5-speed manual transmission, offered a reasonably engaging driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.5 seconds, which was competitive for its class at the time. The engine felt responsive in the mid-range, making it suitable for merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic. The manual transmission provided drivers with more control over the engine’s power band. Compared to a hypothetical higher-output V6 version, the 2.4L felt less powerful, but it offered better fuel economy and a lighter front-end feel, contributing to more balanced handling. The automatic transmission option, while offering convenience, resulted in a noticeable decrease in acceleration and a less direct connection to the engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sebring Coupe 2.4i typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo, and basic cloth upholstery. Optional extras included a premium sound system, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and alloy wheels. The trim level often dictated the availability of these options. Higher trim levels might have included features like upgraded interior trim, automatic climate control, and enhanced safety equipment. The base model focused on affordability, while the 2.4i offered a step up in terms of features and refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The Sebring Coupe utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a coil spring suspension in the rear. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, but it wasn’t particularly sporty. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the overall handling characteristics were more focused on everyday usability than outright performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chrysler Sebring Coupe, including the 2.4i variant, received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While the styling was generally well-received, some critics found the interior materials to be somewhat lacking in quality. The 2.4-liter engine was considered adequate for most drivers, but it wasn’t particularly exciting. Fuel economy was reasonable, averaging around 29 mpg on the highway. Compared to competitors like the Ford Focus Coupe or the Honda Civic Coupe, the Sebring offered a more spacious interior but lacked the same level of refinement and driving dynamics. Reliability was generally average, with some reports of minor issues with the engine and electrical systems.
Legacy
The Chrysler Sebring Coupe, and specifically the 2.4i 16V variant, has become a relatively affordable option in the used car market. The 2.4-liter engine is known for its generally good reliability, although regular maintenance is crucial. Parts availability is generally good, as the engine was used in a variety of Chrysler and Dodge vehicles. While not a collector’s item, the Sebring Coupe represents a unique chapter in Chrysler’s history, offering a glimpse into the early 2000s coupe market. Its blend of affordability, style, and practicality continues to appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking a distinctive and reasonably reliable vehicle.
