This Chrysler is not a car for small boys

22 April 2010 - 02:00
By Mabuyane Kekana

WHAT would life be without the excitement of cars - particularly performance ones?

Car enthusiasts argue that global warming is exaggerated and performance cars should be enjoyed without feeling guilty.

I don't know whether these people are right or wrong.

I had the pleasure of enjoying the Chrysler 300C SRT-8 recently and I can vouch that this is not a car for small boys.

The Chrysler 300C SRT-8 has aggression written all over it. One look at it and you know that it is an animal ready to attack.

Such a vehicle has to be taken to faraway places and quiet roads if you want to stamp down on the accelerator pedal.

I arrived back fully convinced that underneath the bonnet of the Chrysler 300C SRT-8 is a lethal machine engineered for grown-ups with good driving skills.

The 6,1-litre Hemi V8 engine was just what I needed that weekend when I was feeling sluggish and rather unhappy.

After a few hours in the car, playing around, (sober of course) I felt rejuvenated.

I felt the adrenalin rush from the top of my head right through to my toes.

You put the right foot down and the Hemi engine opens up, releasing the 320kW of power that helps the car to fly.

Front and rear suspension knuckles contribute to a ride height lowered by 13mm from the Chrysler 300C. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) has been specially tuned for the SRT-8's performance handling characteristics.

The 300C SRT-8 connects with the road via wheel and tyre assembly consisting of 20-inch forged aluminium wheels.

Befitting its high-performance character, the Chrysler 300C SRT-8's exterior styling is sophisticated and resonates with the car's personality.

Modified (from the 300C) front and rear fascias help direct air flow, particularly through unique ducts that help cool the brakes.

In addition a specially designed rear deck spoiler, while refined in appearance, is also functional - increasing rear downforce.

Other unique touches to the Chrysler 300C SRT-8's exterior include body-colour front and rear bumper inserts, body-colour grille insert with chrome collar, body-colour mirrors and door handles and unique SRT badging.