The 2004 Chrysler ME Four-Twelve Concept was one of the most ambitious and advanced vehicles ever produced by Chrysler. A mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) supercar powered by a quad-turbocharged V-12 engine, it was designed to set new performance records and showcase Chrysler’s engineering and design prowess. Although it never reached production, the ME Four-Twelve remains a legendary example of what could have been.
A Lightning-Fast Development Process –
One of the most impressive aspects of the ME Four-Twelve was its incredibly short development time. Chrysler managed to design and build the concept in less than one year. The original concept car was manufactured by Metalcrafters, a company known for its expertise in crafting high-quality prototype vehicles. Chrysler also built two additional working prototypes for development testing, demonstrating the company’s commitment to making this vehicle a reality.
Power and Performance: The Heart of the ME Four-Twelve –
The ME Four-Twelve was powered by an all-aluminum, quad-turbocharged 6.0-liter (365 cubic-inch) M120 V-12 engine developed by AMG. This powerhouse produced 850 horsepower at 5750 rpm and an astonishing 850 lb-ft (1150 Nm) of torque between 2500 and 4500 rpm. With a compression ratio of 9.0:1 and electronic sequential multipoint fuel injection, this engine delivered remarkable efficiency and performance.
With a curb weight of just 2,880 lbs (1,310 kg), the ME Four-Twelve had an incredible weight-to-power ratio of 3.4 lbs per horsepower. This allowed it to achieve projected acceleration times that were ahead of its time: 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds, 0-100 mph in 6.2 seconds, and a quarter-mile time of 10.6 seconds at 142 mph (228.5 km/h). Its estimated top speed was a staggering 248 mph (400 km/h), placing it among the fastest cars ever designed.
Uninterrupted Power Delivery: The Ricardo Transmission –
To handle the immense power of the AMG engine, Chrysler partnered with Ricardo to develop a 7-speed double-clutch transmission specifically for the ME Four-Twelve. This advanced gearbox featured double wet-clutch technology and an electronic control strategy, enabling shift times of just 200 milliseconds. This ensured seamless power delivery and lightning-fast gear changes, essential for the car’s extraordinary performance.
Advanced Composite Structure and Suspension –
The ME Four-Twelve’s lightweight and rigid structure was made possible by an advanced carbon fiber and aluminum honeycomb monocoque tub. Aluminum crush structures and chrome-moly sub-frames provided additional support, ensuring safety and stability at high speeds.
The suspension system was equally advanced, featuring double wishbones, aluminum control arms, horizontally opposed coil-over dampers, and electronically controlled compression and rebound tuning. Stainless-steel push rods and a blade-configured anti-roll bar contributed to the car’s exceptional handling and cat-like agility.
Aerodynamic Excellence –
Every element of the ME Four-Twelve’s design was optimized for aerodynamic efficiency and high-speed stability. Measuring 44.9 inches tall, 78.7 inches wide, and 178.8 inches long, the car had a low, aggressive stance that looked ready to pounce.
The active rear spoiler adjusted rearward by 100 mm to increase downforce, generating 925 lbs (421 kg) of downforce at 186 mph (300 km/h). The car’s aerodynamic efficiency was further enhanced by a competitive coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.358. Additional aerodynamic features included:
- A front fascia splitter for increased frontal downforce
- A fully developed underbody with an integral rear diffuser to reduce lift and add rear downforce
- Vented front and rear wheel housings to reduce lift
- A decklid “ski-slope” formation for improved rear downforce
- A large rear grille integrated into the fascia for engine cooling
- Cubic section at the front fascia’s leading edge to improve underbody airflow
Wheels, Tires, and Brakes –
The ME Four-Twelve rode on cast aluminum wheels: 19-inch x 10-inch in the front and 20-inch x 12.5-inch in the rear. Michelin high-performance tires completed the setup, with 265/35ZR19 rubber up front and massive 335/30ZR20 tires in the rear, providing exceptional grip and stability.
Stopping power was just as impressive as the ME Four-Twelve’s acceleration. The car was equipped with 15-inch (381 mm) ventilated carbon ceramic composite disc brake rotors paired with 6-piston aluminum monoblock calipers. These brakes were 65% lighter than comparable cast-iron rotors, reducing unsprung mass and improving shock damping response. This setup provided outstanding braking performance, even under extreme conditions.
A Purposeful and Luxurious Interior –
Inside, the ME Four-Twelve combined performance-focused design with Chrysler’s signature elegance. The carbon fiber structure was visible throughout the cabin, showcasing the car’s lightweight construction. Leather-covered sport seats weighed just 27 lbs (12.3 kg) each, and the interior provided generous space with 37.2 inches (942 mm) of headroom and 42.7 inches (1085 mm) of legroom.
Additional interior features included a large glass roof panel, a passenger-side adjustable foot support for extreme cornering, and steering wheel-mounted controls. An F1-style paddle shifter with aluminum paddles and centrally mounted driver controls ensured an engaging driving experience.
The Ultimate Chrysler Engineering Statement –
Despite its promise and groundbreaking design, the ME Four-Twelve remained a prototype. It was a testament to Chrysler’s engineering and design capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what the brand could achieve. The car’s combination of power, lightweight construction, advanced aerodynamics, and luxurious interior made it one of the most remarkable concept cars of its time.
Although the ME Four-Twelve never made it to production, its legacy lives on as a symbol of Chrysler’s innovative spirit and ambition. This supercar stands as a reminder of what can happen when a company dares to dream big and push the limits of automotive performance.
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