Chrysler Crossfire, what to look out for when buying used
Discussion
russy01 said:
Give the bloody bloke some advice, not diss his / mates choice of car!!!
Don't know a huge amount about them mate, But I have heard the electrics can be pretty dodgy. So I would take for a drive and test all switches, make sure it doesn't knock anything else out.
Cheers, more useful advice welcome as well as the usual PH comedy and the typical Clarksonised answersDon't know a huge amount about them mate, But I have heard the electrics can be pretty dodgy. So I would take for a drive and test all switches, make sure it doesn't knock anything else out.
Noted.
Seems to be a pretty reliable car then
Seems to be a pretty reliable car then
JakesterUK said:
When you look at one make sure you test drive it over 50mph and check the rear spolier lifts up (as designed to) as they're know to stick and are a SOB to fix.
Check all interior switches work and light up as they're also a weak link.
Check all interior switches work and light up as they're also a weak link.
Surely it would have some trade in value for a dealer whose willing to sit on it for a while, they are stunning looking cars for the price and rare.
Answer: zip, dip, nada, nothing. So just divide the price by three and you have the annual cost; plus tax, insurance and maintenance.There are plenty out there for less than 6 grand... I think most people would happily absorb 6 grand in depreciation in three years should it really be worth nothing... Or maybe we're just bashing it because it's Yank s
t?
OP, why not? You'll not get any other reasonably new "sportscar" with a 3.2 litre V6 for that kind of money.
Papa Hotel said:
Ozzie Osmond said:
kazino said:
Seems to be a pretty reliable car then
Which is only the start. Value in 3 years time is the real question.Answer: zip, dip, nada, nothing. So just divide the price by three and you have the annual cost; plus tax, insurance and maintenance.
t? OP, why not? You'll not get any other reasonably new "sportscar" with a 3.2 litre V6 for that kind of money.
I have actually driven one myself in the states for a couple of weeks, it was the regular 3.2, the interior even then when it was new was straight out of my parents e-class merc, which really didn't go well with the sporty demeanour of the body. It rolled very badly in the corners, the steering wheel was enormous and the weight of the car was apparent in that the 3.2 engine felt more like a 2.2, it was very much lacking in power compared to a 1.8t TT or the 350z which I have also rented in the states for a few days (very reasonable over there).
I made the suggestion to him to buy the car given his budget; he is more interested in aesthetics and a car that doesn't look dated. The car will be used in London traffic so the complete lack of feedback from the wheel is most welcome to him, also the car is fast enough for his use and I guess he'll put on a mildly uprated exhaust to get a little more sound from it and change the wheels.
For the money I can't think of anything that would suit him better. The depreciation isn't a problem unless there is an alternative that would fit his style of car in the price range of 6-8k
I'm assuming the reason it sold badly was because in it's time it's new price was not competitively priced to the Audi TT, 350Z, Z4 etc for someone to purchase a Chrysler coupe, I certainly would have gone for the Z4 if it was my money.
I made the suggestion to him to buy the car given his budget; he is more interested in aesthetics and a car that doesn't look dated. The car will be used in London traffic so the complete lack of feedback from the wheel is most welcome to him, also the car is fast enough for his use and I guess he'll put on a mildly uprated exhaust to get a little more sound from it and change the wheels.
For the money I can't think of anything that would suit him better. The depreciation isn't a problem unless there is an alternative that would fit his style of car in the price range of 6-8k
I'm assuming the reason it sold badly was because in it's time it's new price was not competitively priced to the Audi TT, 350Z, Z4 etc for someone to purchase a Chrysler coupe, I certainly would have gone for the Z4 if it was my money.
J4CKO said:
There is such snobbery on here about certain cars, I drove one and thought it was quite good, it seems to me that people will toss themselves into a frenzy about some right crusty old woofers because its an "Icon" but look down there nose at something thats actually not a bad car because it isn't, ok they arent the last word in feedback but they drive better than the internet wisdom would have you beleive, I was supripsed how quick the 3.2 felt, the SRT must be a monster.
How many knocking it have driven one and actually drive something for the same money that is actually better ?
No I dont own one, though I dont rule it out (SRT)
How many knocking it have driven one and actually drive something for the same money that is actually better ?
No I dont own one, though I dont rule it out (SRT)
Boxster of that price will be expensive to maintain and it looks old. The Z is too heavy handed for his day to day use, it will just become a chore to drive.
I'm sure it'll have some resale value contrary to what people are saying, he'll only be keeping it for a year I guess so even if it drops to 3-4k I don't think it'll be a problem as it appears it quite a solid car and won't be expensive to service so it evens it up.
I'm sure it'll have some resale value contrary to what people are saying, he'll only be keeping it for a year I guess so even if it drops to 3-4k I don't think it'll be a problem as it appears it quite a solid car and won't be expensive to service so it evens it up.
nsmith1180 said:
Seriously, If you are looking for a car like that, Boxter or Z. Crossfire is just minging. Im sure its a good car to drive, but if you want to spend money on a car which very few people will buy when you want rid....
chocolatemonk said:
If you want to buy one, oh i mean if 'your mate' wants to buy one 
just go for it, it would be boring if we all liked the same things
I'm actually thinking of buying one for my little bro now, it's got rubbish steering and even though it's a 3.2 it's nice and slow so he can't get into any trouble just go for it, it would be boring if we all liked the same things
Very good point, I shall have to find an alternative
6.5 seconds to 60 and not far off 150mph iirc, not that slow really is it?!
fraserbottomley said:
kazino said:
chocolatemonk said:
If you want to buy one, oh i mean if 'your mate' wants to buy one just go for it, it would be boring if we all liked the same things
I'm actually thinking of buying one for my little bro now, it's got rubbish steering and even though it's a 3.2 it's nice and slow so he can't get into any trouble just go for it, it would be boring if we all liked the same thingsLDN said:
Kazino, I own one and can help
I have always been a stickler for brilliant handling cars - my first car was Peugot 205 XS (couldn't afford a GTI) and while my mates all drove cars that looked good - all I cared about was the drive... to this day, I love the 205 and constantly look for 2nd hand GTI bargains. I've driven many nice cars - most of which are my uncles; Corvettes, Impreza's, Porsche's, all the way through to the newer hot hatches like the BMW 1, Volvo C30 T5 and Mazda 3 MPS. So... I know my cars and recognise nuances in handling and power.
To the OP, take onboard what everyone says; but to anyone who hasn't driven one, hold fire (excuse the pun) and remember personal preference comes into it. It's true that it was pitted against Nissan Z's and RX8's when released (it will hold it's own in a 0-60) - and it's also true that it was never intended in that vein; despite the looks, it's more a Tourer. Since buying the car - I have read up on it's history, the concept car, the designer and how it all came together. I know that there is one chap with a huge collection of very exotic and rare cars, he has a Crossfire in his collection... in America; since the end of manufacture was announced, used Crossfire prices have risen; as many see it as a future classic / collectors car - taking it's place as the slightly ecentric offspring from the (now defunt) Daimler Chrysler marriage... hello Fiat!!!
In choosing the Crossfire (or 'Xfire' as the yanks put it), I test drove a Audi TT 3.2 DSG, 3.2 Boxster - and I had already driven an RX8 231; the Boxster and RX8 were proper point and squirt sports cars. The Xfire was very different in it's nature and altogether more unique - to me, it felt special; YES, it feels at times like a luxury Mercedes barge (in it's steering) but that's not a bad thing for me personally (it's no Lotus!). It turns heads and is a magnet for conversation. I've been stopped in petrol stations, carparks, traffic lights and I've only had it a few weeks.
As standard you get: electric driver and passenger seats: heated seats, dual zone climate control, Ininity sound system; 0-60 sub 6.5 and 150MPH top speed. A car that was just under £30,000 new can be had mint for £8000 upwards. I've had NO problems with it - solid Mercedes everything (built in Germany by Karmann - read up about Karmann!) - Chrysler changed the exhaust system to make for a better note / compared to the SLK 320. Look out for the Xfire 'SRT6' - a real beast.
The Xfire has a large and very loyal following in America - and the community / clubs are some of the most active I've ever seen - organising coast to coast Xfire road trips, stripping them for the 1/4 miles, etc etc. I've fallen so in love with the car that I'm thinking of going Stateside to join them for a road trip.
I've seen many cars both praised and slated on PistonHeads and people quote figures / EVO mag stats on track feedback, lap times, etc etc - at the end of the day, DRIVE it and see how it fits YOU (or rather your friend). I like rare cars / watches / gadgets and things with a story behind them... and I wanted a reliable everyday car that would fit the bill. Next on my list, however, is an M5 for the times I need more than two seats
Now for the things that your friend should look out for.
Here's my baby...
Fantastic looking car you have there and many thanks for the advice on what to look out for.I have always been a stickler for brilliant handling cars - my first car was Peugot 205 XS (couldn't afford a GTI) and while my mates all drove cars that looked good - all I cared about was the drive... to this day, I love the 205 and constantly look for 2nd hand GTI bargains. I've driven many nice cars - most of which are my uncles; Corvettes, Impreza's, Porsche's, all the way through to the newer hot hatches like the BMW 1, Volvo C30 T5 and Mazda 3 MPS. So... I know my cars and recognise nuances in handling and power.
To the OP, take onboard what everyone says; but to anyone who hasn't driven one, hold fire (excuse the pun) and remember personal preference comes into it. It's true that it was pitted against Nissan Z's and RX8's when released (it will hold it's own in a 0-60) - and it's also true that it was never intended in that vein; despite the looks, it's more a Tourer. Since buying the car - I have read up on it's history, the concept car, the designer and how it all came together. I know that there is one chap with a huge collection of very exotic and rare cars, he has a Crossfire in his collection... in America; since the end of manufacture was announced, used Crossfire prices have risen; as many see it as a future classic / collectors car - taking it's place as the slightly ecentric offspring from the (now defunt) Daimler Chrysler marriage... hello Fiat!!!
In choosing the Crossfire (or 'Xfire' as the yanks put it), I test drove a Audi TT 3.2 DSG, 3.2 Boxster - and I had already driven an RX8 231; the Boxster and RX8 were proper point and squirt sports cars. The Xfire was very different in it's nature and altogether more unique - to me, it felt special; YES, it feels at times like a luxury Mercedes barge (in it's steering) but that's not a bad thing for me personally (it's no Lotus!). It turns heads and is a magnet for conversation. I've been stopped in petrol stations, carparks, traffic lights and I've only had it a few weeks.
As standard you get: electric driver and passenger seats: heated seats, dual zone climate control, Ininity sound system; 0-60 sub 6.5 and 150MPH top speed. A car that was just under £30,000 new can be had mint for £8000 upwards. I've had NO problems with it - solid Mercedes everything (built in Germany by Karmann - read up about Karmann!) - Chrysler changed the exhaust system to make for a better note / compared to the SLK 320. Look out for the Xfire 'SRT6' - a real beast.
The Xfire has a large and very loyal following in America - and the community / clubs are some of the most active I've ever seen - organising coast to coast Xfire road trips, stripping them for the 1/4 miles, etc etc. I've fallen so in love with the car that I'm thinking of going Stateside to join them for a road trip.
I've seen many cars both praised and slated on PistonHeads and people quote figures / EVO mag stats on track feedback, lap times, etc etc - at the end of the day, DRIVE it and see how it fits YOU (or rather your friend). I like rare cars / watches / gadgets and things with a story behind them... and I wanted a reliable everyday car that would fit the bill. Next on my list, however, is an M5 for the times I need more than two seats
Now for the things that your friend should look out for.
- Every Xfire that I've driven (and I've driven a few!); the spoiler works perfectly but check this as there are some horror stories. It comes up at 60MPH and goes down at 40MPH - but you can deploy it whenever you like via a button in the centre console (second from the left)
- Listen for a rattle where the front and rear of the exhaust system meet. 30 seconds on a ramp and a quick bolt tighten sort it out. Very rare but it happens.
- Open the boot, you will see two black 'feet' that are designed as stoppers. If aligned wrong, they can leave marks in the paintwork (about 2cm long) - re-alignment is easy but excessive paint wear might be a bugger.
- The Infinity head unit LCD display can go tits up but will still work. Again rare, but it happens.
- The leather on the seats can get ever so slightly 'baggy' - do not let it bother you as it happens on all of them.
- pre 2004 Xfire's have an over-engineered pop out cup holder... these are st and break constantly. 2004 ('54 reg) onwards do not have the holder and there is a trough instead. You can manually swap them over if you wish.
- There is NO spare wheel as there's no space for one - so check ALL of the tool kit and puncture kit is present in the boot.
- If you can get the 'roller-blind' boot cover then great! these were £300 new and it means that your luggage is covered - otherwise you can view the boot contents through the rear hatch.
Here's my baby...matt-man said:
I am always amazed with the stupid comment people on here can make...
Someone goes onto a forum to ask for advice on a car they are interested in an someone says 'buy another one?'
For all you that said something along the line of 'buy a SLK or a Boxster' - congratulations, you are very boring and will really stand out as the man with the Boxter/SLK....apart from the millions you see everyday!
Back to the point though, you guessed it - we have one! A 2006 convertible to be precise and it is EXCELLENT! Sure the steering is terrible, and it might be a bit thirsty, but it is a great car! Really rare sight, reliable, goes really well and fully loaded!
We compared against a Z4 and sure the BMW might be a 'better' car (has a BMW badge), but doesnt have the X.....
We drove 1800 miles this summer through europe as the TVR being fixed, but didnt regret it one bit!
Cant advise on what to look for - in 35000 miles and 2 and a half years, NOTHING has gone wrong!
Enjoy!
Thanks very much for your input, I'm glad to hear you've not had any problems with the car, seems to be what most people say about them. Someone goes onto a forum to ask for advice on a car they are interested in an someone says 'buy another one?'
For all you that said something along the line of 'buy a SLK or a Boxster' - congratulations, you are very boring and will really stand out as the man with the Boxter/SLK....apart from the millions you see everyday!
Back to the point though, you guessed it - we have one! A 2006 convertible to be precise and it is EXCELLENT! Sure the steering is terrible, and it might be a bit thirsty, but it is a great car! Really rare sight, reliable, goes really well and fully loaded!
We compared against a Z4 and sure the BMW might be a 'better' car (has a BMW badge), but doesnt have the X.....
We drove 1800 miles this summer through europe as the TVR being fixed, but didnt regret it one bit!
Cant advise on what to look for - in 35000 miles and 2 and a half years, NOTHING has gone wrong!
Enjoy!
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