The “merger of equals” between Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz is remembered today without much fondness, although it gave the world the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Challenger. It was also thanks to this alliance that the Chrysler Crossfire was born, built on the platform of the Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Nearly 20 years after production ended, the Crossfire is once again in the spotlight. This time it has served as the basis for a replica of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL created by Signature Autosports.
The car is positioned as “a modern interpretation of one of the most famous silhouettes in automotive history,” so the creators make it clear from the outset that they were not aiming for a completely faithful recreation of the original 300 SL Gullwing.
This is obvious at first glance. In place of the elegant chrome bumper is a massive and somewhat clumsy front splitter. The look is completed by round LED headlights that resemble “insect eyes” and front fenders that would look more at home on a Shelby Cobra than on a classic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL.
The rear of the car is significantly more successful. The characteristic roofline is instantly recognizable, and the gullwing doors pay clear homage to the original. The rounded tail also quite accurately conveys the proportions of the historic 300 SL.
Even here, however, there are debatable choices. The replica features a center-mounted dual exhaust, Bentley Sequin Blue Metallic paint, and Cosmis Racing wheels that look far too modern and clash with the car’s retro styling.
Signature Autosports has released few technical details, but it is known that the interior is trimmed in Golden Brown Merino leather and equipped with retro-style gauges. Some of the switches clearly come from the Chrysler Crossfire, while the audio system is styled after 1970s equipment. Inside you’ll also find a folding two-spoke steering wheel and a dashboard painted in the body color.
Since the project is based on a 2004 Chrysler Crossfire, the engine remains the original 3.2-liter naturally aspirated V6 producing 215 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels.
Signature Autosports is asking $299,950 for this car — nearly $100,000 more than a new 816-horsepower Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance. For comparison, a 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Coupe started at $29,920, while the Limited version with an automatic transmission was priced at $35,695.
