Chrysler Firepower Concept – The HEMI® V8-Powered GT Car

The Chrysler Group made a bold statement at the 2005 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) by introducing the captivating Chrysler Firepower Concept. This innovative concept vehicle combined passion and luxury, demonstrating the brand’s potential in the upscale GT coupe segment. Building upon the success of the 2004 Chrysler ME Four-Twelve supercar concept, the Firepower Concept showcased the integration of Chrysler’s performance-oriented models, like the Crossfire, with cutting-edge engineering and design.

Trevor Creed, the Senior Vice President of Chrysler Group Design at the time, expressed the team’s ambitious challenge, stating, “We pushed ourselves to find the perfect balance, incorporating the strengths of Chrysler models like the Crossfire, which epitomized the brand’s move towards enhanced performance and elegance. Simultaneously, we aimed to capture the most extreme elements of engineering and design seen in the previous year’s ME Four-Twelve prototype. The Firepower Concept effectively bridges these two worlds.”

Meticulously crafted, the Firepower Concept exemplified automotive design and engineering that catered to Chrysler brand customers. The exterior and interior designs exuded elegance and sophistication, featuring premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. Underneath its sleek exterior, the Firepower Concept boasted a formidable performance, powered by a 6.1-liter (370 cubic-inch) HEMI® V8 engine and utilizing the Dodge Viper-based chassis.

Developed by Chrysler’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division, the 6.1-liter HEMI V8 generated an impressive 425 horsepower and 425 lb.-ft of torque. Leveraging the Viper’s rear-wheel drive chassis, the Firepower Concept incorporated a suspension system and Brembo brakes befitting a high-performance vehicle. The engine was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission featuring AutoStick®, offering precise control. Chrysler estimated that the Firepower Concept could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds, with an estimated top speed of 175 mph.

The Firepower Concept sported custom-designed seven-spoke billet aluminum wheels, measuring 19×12 inches in the front and 20×12 inches in the rear. These impressive wheels were adorned with Michelin Pilot Sport tires, sized 275/35R19 in the front and 335/30R20 in the rear.

Its exterior showcased a striking Hydro Silver Pearl paint finish, complemented by dark carbon fiber accents and polished aluminum trim. The body’s design was not only influenced by Chrysler’s grand touring heritage but also incorporated Computational Fluid Dynamics modeling to optimize aerodynamics. This meticulous approach allowed for efficient engine cooling and enhanced rear downforce.

Continuing the brand’s commitment to beauty and elegance, the interior of the Firepower Concept epitomized Chrysler’s distinctive image. The color scheme featured Ocean Deep Blue as the primary hue, combined with Oyster leather upholstery and Behr maple accents. The finely tailored leather-covered sport seats, automatic climate control, and premium audio system contributed to a tasteful and purposeful interior environment. All touch surfaces, including the steering wheel, control knobs, and shifter, boasted premium materials for a luxurious feel. The instrument panel was thoughtfully designed to display crucial information through precisely-detailed gauges, enhancing the overall sense of refinement.

“The Firepower concept encapsulates the essence of the Chrysler brand’s philosophy,” Creed affirmed. “It effortlessly combines luxury, refinement, and sophistication with a passionate and high-performance spirit.”

2005 Chrysler Firepower Concept Image Gallery:

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