Basic Information Identification Make: Chrysler Model: Crossfire Year: 2004 Chassis Code: ZH Generation Generation: First Generation (ZH) Codes Body Style: Coupe, Roadster (Convertible) Introduction Market Position Market Position: The Chrysler...
The Chrysler Crossfire was positioned as a premium, sporty coupe and roadster, aimed at buyers seeking distinctive styling and performance, often compared to European sports cars of similar design ethos.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Porsche Boxster/Cayman, BMW Z4, Mercedes-Benz SLK, and Ford Mustang in terms of style and performance intent, although often at a more accessible price point.
Key Features
Key Features:
Distinctive design inspired by the Mercedes-Benz SLK, rear-wheel drive platform, powerful engines, sporty handling characteristics.
Approx. 3175 lbs (1440 kg) Manual; Approx. 3230 lbs (1465 kg) Automatic
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4100 lbs (1860 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Capacity Coupe:
7.7 cu ft (0.218 m³)
Trunk Capacity Roadster:
5.3 cu ft (0.150 m³)
Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Not explicitly rated or widely published for 2004 models.
Active Features
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Passive Features:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side-impact airbags, three-point seat belts with pretensioners, roll-over protection (for Roadster)
Brakes
Front Brakes:
Vented Discs, 12.6 inches (320 mm) diameter
Rear Brakes:
Solid Discs, 11.5 inches (292 mm) diameter
Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Factory installed AM/FM/CD audio system. Optional premium Boston Acoustics sound system. Navigation system was not widely available or a common factory option for the 2004 model year.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Cruise Control.
Connectivity
Connectivity:
Limited connectivity features by modern standards. May include an auxiliary input for audio devices depending on the audio system.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Long-life spark plugs)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (MB 229.5 specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 quarts (7.1 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 (Glysantin G48) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 236.3 (or equivalent Dexron III ATF)
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 1.7 quarts (1.6 liters)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.9 quarts (7.5 liters) for complete fill, 4.4 quarts (4.2 liters) for torque converter drain and fill.
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Potential for ABS/ESP warning lights due to faulty wheel speed sensors or ABS control module.
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Chrysler, a long-standing American automotive brand known for innovation and a range of vehicles from minivans to sports cars. The Crossfire represented an attempt to capture the premium sports car market with unique styling and European engineering influence.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The Crossfire was originally conceived as a concept car by Chrysler and later developed in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz. It utilized a significant amount of Mercedes-Benz SLK (R170) platform components and powertrains. It was produced from 2003 to 2008.
Production
Production Location:
Karmann factory in Osnabrück, Germany
Production Years:
2003-2008
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
The Chrysler Crossfire received mixed reviews at launch. While its styling was often praised, performance and interior refinement were sometimes seen as not fully matching its premium aspirations or some European competitors. Specific awards are not prominently cited for the 2004 model year.