Checking out some of the other threads, I saw the discussion regarding variable valve timing and the Crossfire engine. Not sure if anyone wants this little discussion, but here goes.

Basically the Xfire engine (and assorted other bits and pieces - only the good stuff I'm sure!) were sourced out of the Mercedes parts bins - many coming from the outgoing Mercedes SLK model. The engine is the same 3.2L, 3-valve/cylinder, 215 HP engine as was used in the "standard" version of the outgoing SLK. Bear in mind, however, that the SLK weighs in at 200+ pounds over the svelte Xfire and I believe the gearing was somewhat different (and of course WE have those lovely 19" wheels on the rear versus 17" for the Mercedes).

The SLK was also available with the AMG option engine - supercharged 3.2L producing 349 HP. As I understand it, this is the same engine that will be available in the SRT-6 version of the Xfire although slightly de-tuned. For what it's worth, the Xfire platform - thanks in part to the closed coupe structure - is much more rigid than the SLK and will be able to make full and effective use of the supercharged engine - something the SLK could apparently never do.

The new SLK is getting a 3.5L, 4-valve/cylinder engine producing 268HP in normal form and an optional V-8 will be available. Factor in, however, that the SLK will still be more than 200 pounds heavier than a comparable Xfire, and be about $10,000 more expensive!

Frankly I think the Xfire has one of the more beautiful designs on the road today and I certainly wouldn't trade mine - even straight across - for any SLK!

(Formerly owned, driven and loved automoiles: MGA, MGB-GT, Jag XKE, BMW 2800, 2-Firebird TransAms, Mazda Cosmo (a true sleeper), M-B 450SL and a BMW 740i).

 

Was there a question in there Boomer? Maybe it was the rhetorical type. Anyway, I enjoyed your anaylsis and agree with you on all points. What caught my eye was your automotive rides and loves. They mirror mine to some extent as I have owned many of your mentions, except the Mazda Cosmos a truly revolutionary design. Must have been one of your loves as so few were imported to the USA. I'm a true Mazda fan having owned many, mostly RX-7's, but I just could not stomach the RX-8 after seeing the Crossfire.

 

I can't stomach any of the Japanese sports cars anymore either. They just look japanese, and that says, at least for me, little boy racer import car scene. Big wings, ground effects, black carbon fiber hoods, etc....

It would have been sweet though to have gotten the Crossfire with the 268hp 4valve per cyl. engine!

But I have to admit, I really like having our low-tech 3.2L Merc engine. Something tells me that it is probably quite bulletproof compared to the other high tech, multivalve engines out there.

 

I spent over a year looking and was set on getting a S2000. They aren't much for room, but I love how they handle. The dealer had the color I wanted, it had been on the lot a couple months, two more just came in. I figured I could make a great deal.

My wife and I did our final pass through the lots to look at the various cars and stopped at Chrysler to see if they had a Crossfire. I had only seen one on the road and hadn't seen inside.

Should I say, 2 weeks later I owned the Crossfire and I don't regret it.