Hi Robin, i am a new owner. Before this i drove a '03 PT GT, '03 SRT-4, and a fully custom turbocharged '98 Neon RT. I recently purchased my '05 base model, black, stickshift and am loving it. I must say, i was not very excited about the straight line performance of the car from what was on paper (215 hp). However after driving it for the past few weeks i must say that 215 ponies work awful hard. The car is more than quick enough with the stick shift but you'll never convince anyone with the hp numbers on paper. I guess since the crossfire is lighter than the MB SLK it really makes a difference in its sprint capabilities. On the other hand, the 3.2 V6 is clunky compared to my previous engines (chrysler 2.0 DOHC and 2.4 DOHC, both turbocharged). It makes more valvetrain noise at idle and daily driving RPM range than i would like to hear.
In reality, the car body is amazing, the wheel/tire combination is mind blowing, the suspension a joy to experience... but what it needs under the hood is a 2.4 DOHC turbo engine as used in the SRT-4 models and the already in use rear wheel drive 6 speed manual used in the jeep liberty with the 2.4 4 cylinder... it will cost less to produce than the hefty mercedes engine and target a entirely new market of performance seeking individuals (the srt-6 is out of reach for most thrill seekers - they'd rather buy a EVO or STI for 10k less just because it is in their price range not because they wouldn't like to have a rear wheel drive roadster) ... However, the rest of the car, should really not be changed at all. I recently saw the Chrysler Firepower concept and was left thinking "oh jeez... this cannot replace the best looking car chrysler has made in years... its a 350z with a chrysler badge".

But really, in all honesty, with the 2.4 4 cylinder, turbo + 6 speed manual, there would not be one of these left on the lots... they would sell above invoice even... the car is gorgeous, yes... but the engine cannot keep up with the cars looks...