| Test Driver Ratings & Comments |
|---|
| Acceleration comments | Although you wouldn't think 3,487 pounds is a lot of weight for a 200-horsepower engine to lug around, the 17-second quarter-mile times we got with the Sebring Limited Convertible reflect that it is indeed too much weight for this engine/trans combo. Our best quarter-mile numbers came on the very first run, and we started slowing just slightly on each additional run as the engine got hotter. As we've stated with previous testing of Chrysler products with the Autostick option, it should be renamed to "Nauto" (as in Not auto) stick, because it really won't let you control upshifts past the pre-programmed mapping that the Chrysler engineers deem fit. It just upshifts for you even if you want to shift at a higher rpm. |
| Braking rating | Good |
| Braking comments | Braking was much more of a pleasant surprise than the acceleration numbers. We got our best numbers on the third and fourth attempts, showing that fade was not an issue in our testing. Our best 60-to-0 was on the third run and the best 30-to-0 occurred on the fourth run. On each of the runs, we experienced good stability but with moderate nose dive. All in all, a very good system that could use some minor improvements, like better stability and less nose dive, otherwise we may have given it a better rating. |
| Handling rating | Average |
| Handling comments | We noted that we were able, even at the track, to experience a bit more chassis flex than we'd have liked, but it seemed to help the handling of this vehicle. It may have allowed all four wheels to stay better planted on the pavement through the slalom runs. Steering was a bit too light, but quick through the cones. Because of the fuel-efficient transmission gearing, we ran through the cones in second gear, because third was just too far out of the powerband. Also we had to carry speed through the cones because not much could be added from engine acceleration once we started our run through the cones. — Neil G. Chirico |
