The 2007 Chrysler Crossfire descends from a venerable pedigree. The sleek, low-slung, monochromatic, RWD sports car (coupe or roadster) is built by German maker Karmann for Daimler Chrysler. A good half of this two-seater's parts (drivetrain, interior details, and chassis) are the same as the Mercedes Benz SLK Class.

With an elongated hood and powerful width across the "shoulders," the Crossfire seems poised to run. Inside, driver and passenger sink into seats trimmed in leather. The black and white guages have ebony bezels with trim rings finished in satin silver, a metallic detail used throughout the cabin and on the steering wheel. To put it mildly, the effect is mouth-watering. You just want to get behind the wheel and go somewhere -- anywhere -- in a Crossfire.

Under the hood you get 215 horsepower from a 3.2-liter, 18-valve, V6 with either a manual or automatic transmission. Expect 17 to 21 mpg in the city and 25-28 on the open road. Price wise, you're looking at $29,635 to $39,080 depending on the configuration.

Reviewers look on approvingly at the vehicle's maneuverability and handling but do cite some difficulty getting in and out -- hardly a blip on the screen for sport car lovers. Overall, the 2007 Chrysler Crossfire has an attractive price tag given the quality of its engineering and flashy good looks. It may not be a top of the line sports car, but it's far up the line and more than worth a second look.