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What Is It?

Chrysler Firepower Concept

What's Special About It?

While Chrysler has used the Viper platform and suspension in addition to elements of the ME-412 concept as the basis for this striking two-seat sports car concept, the company has made no secret of the fact that the Firepower's aesthetics were inspired by classic British brands such as Aston Martin and Bentley. The Viper's V10 has been eschewed, though, in favor of a leaner 6.1-liter Hemi V8, which will be paired with a five-speed automatic gearbox. Those who do not think that this is a powerful enough engine, compared to that of the Viper, would be thrilled to learn that the car can make zero to 60 in less than 4.5 seconds. This rear-wheel-drive "grand tourer" also features such distinguishing touches as a panoramic glass roof with a hatchback design, as well as cooling vents on the hood and substantial touches of chrome throughout. The Firepower could conceivably go into production within a year and a half to two years of its Detroit debut.

What's Edmunds' Take?

The Firepower is a refined and elegant sports car — the likes of which haven't been seen from a domestic brand in some time. The Firepower seems much less thrown-together and much more pleasing to the eye than its Viper stablemate, with a much more manageable engine, which should attract the majority who do not aspire to become racecar drivers. If the enthusiasm that Chrysler executives have demonstrated for the Firepower is to be taken at face value, this vehicle is surely the logical psychic follow-up to the daring 300. Priced similarly to a Corvette, the Firepower could likely secure Chrysler Group's newfound fortunes for the immediate future. — Phil Lienert