I drove a Chrysler Crossfire the other day. I was very impressed with the little convertable. Steering, clutch, and suspension were all looser than the MINI. But, every bit as fun, just different. Plenty of get-up-and-go (215 hp). It did handle predictably and power delivery was smooth enough, much better launch than the MINI. I didn't flog the car--it's not mine--but did some spirited toodling.

I would probably consider such a thing if I had more $$ to spend. At new sticker, the price may be a bit steep, but a good value on the used market, I think.

dan

 

Mercedes made a nice car in the first gen SLK

 

Chrysler product? Plan on flushing your money.

 

Mercedes in Chrysler clothes. And if they haven't stopped production already, they will soon. I don't keep up so much since I left Chrysler.

 

The depreciation on those is steep so you could find one used for a good price. The SRT-6 version is pretty potent but they always erred on the smooth side as the target buyer for that car is a middle aged guy but you can still have a lot of fun with one and as a cruiser it's great.

 

All the Crossfire was, was an old platform SLK. It was good for the day but if I was in the market for a sporty roadster I would look no further than the cheaper MX-5.

 

Crossfire is a roadster, but not terribly sporty - more of a touring car. Totally different market than the MX-5. My mom loves the Crossfire, but an MX-5 is too rough for her - for example.

 

i tried the crossfire when they first came out. i was not impressed
with the clutch and shifter action at all. it was sloppy and didn't
feel refined. it was nice on the AT version.

 

same criticism of the SLK 5sp. It was like 'thanks for offering one, but NO!'

 

I found the same issues with M-B's 6sp on a used C230 I drove. It was the hatch version with the 1.9 Kompressor engine (about 190hp) and I liked eveything but the shifter, especially the clutch which had a really high action and made it tough to find a seat position that was comfortable and allowed good clutch work. It was pretty quick however and with RWD and well worn tires I could get the tail out pretty easily- I didn't drift it but I could've!

 

I have an AT one and it's a great deal of fun.