2005 Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6

The recipe for a good time on California's outrageously scenic Highway 1 is straightforward:

We previously reported on the standard Crossfire coupe and roadster, as well as the recently introduced Crossfire coupe; offering a high-performance, SRT-ified convertible variant was the next logical step for Chrysler's designer two-seater.

The idea behind the SRT (that's Street and Racing Technology) treatment is to maximize key areas such as powertrain and braking performance, handling prowess, exterior design and aerodynamics, and interior sportiness and comfort -- in a balanced fashion. That means "don't add horsepower without adding brakes and suspension to match." Limited production runs and higher pricing are a given, and add a measure of exclusivity. But it takes more that just bolting in a big motor and stiffer springs. "Developing the appropriate mix of hardware for this car is different than it was for, say, the Ram SRT-10" says Dan Knott, who heads up SRT. "It's still about performance, but a Chrysler - even a hot one -- needs to be a little more sophisticated, a little less in your face, than a Dodge." Like all Crossfires, the SRT-6 is an international blending of pieces and teamwork: the powertrain comes from Mercedes AMG, the car is assembled by Karmann in Germany, and the design and tuning is done here in America.

The 3.2-liter helical-supercharged, intercooled, aluminum SOHC V-6 used in both Crossfire SRT-6s last saw duty in the 2002-04 Mercedes-Benz C32 and SLK32 AMG, and is rated at 330 horsepower in Chrysler trim. That's 115 more ponies than the standard, naturally aspirated Crossfire models. At 310 pounds feet of torque, this V-6 cranks out the same amount of grunt as a late 1980s 5.0-liter Mustang, a perennial musclecar fave. The high-tech blower used on this motor is designed to smooth out the hiccups served up by supercharged engines when the throttle is closed at high rpm. The only transmission choice is a five-speed automatic; there is no manual, but the responsive AutoStick shifter helps satisfy those who like to mix their own gears. Mercedes offers steering wheel-mounted shifter paddles on its AMG cars; why didn't we get them here?