It’s never a bad time to dive into the details of a unique concept car, and this particular one shown here, known as the 2005 Chrysler Firepower, is easily one that deserves some consideration. Based on the underpinnings of a third-generation Dodge Viper, the Firepower concept car borrows some styling inspiration from the Chrysler Crossfire production car which was first introduced in 2003. The exterior styling for this interesting concept was handled by the 1998 graduate of Detroit's College for Creative Studies and automotive designer, Brian Nielander. The interior was designed by Greg Howell, and when it was first shown during the 2005 North American International Auto Show, it became an instant hit for it’s Viper-esque appearance combined with it’s luxurious cabin and features. As seen on many other Chrysler cars from the era, the Firepower features the signature egg crate grille, however, this is probably the only reminiscent design element that this car shares with others built from the company, as it rather demonstrates an unprecedented use of carbon fiber and beautiful flowing bodywork that a Chrysler customer could only wish for at the time. The Firepower was finished in a color known as ‘Hydro Silver Pearl’ and was decked out with polished aluminum accents, a panoramic glass roof, and a cockpit dressed in beautiful maple and chrome accents, with leather upholstered seats. Interestingly, while the Firepower was built based on a Viper chassis, it loses the Viper’s notorious 10-cylinder engine, and instead was equipped with a 6.1-liter HEMI V8 unit. Something else you won’t find in any other Viper on the road (unless you’re willing to do a considerable amount of work) is a five-speed automatic transmission, which perfectly compliments this projects grand-tourer aspirations. Another aspect of the development behind this car was the goal to develop a hybrid car using existing hardware.
How many made? 1
Engine: 6.1-liter HEMI V8
Debut: 2005 North American International Auto Show
Top Speed: approximately 175mph
0-60mph: approximately 4.5 seconds
Photo Credit: @joe.p.stevenson
Research: @rarecarsonly