A domestic mainstay in the midsize segment, the Chrysler Sebring is one of only a handful of reasonably priced vehicles to be offered as both a sedan and a convertible. There have been some Sebring highlights over the years, including the fun-in-the-sun convertible and the second-generation coupe, which shared a platform with the Mitsubishi Eclipse. But overall, while the Sebring may not cost as much as other midsize cars, it likely won't be as satisfying, either.
The current third-generation Chrysler Sebring sedan was redesigned for the 2007 model year. The convertible sat out '07, returning as a 2008 model with an optional retractable hardtop, and a six-CD changer became standard in 2008. Notably, antilock brakes weren't standard across the lineup until 2009.
In 2001 Chrysler introduced the second-generation Sebring sedan and reworked coupes and convertibles powered by updated engines and transmissions. The coupe shared a platform with Mitsubishi's Eclipse. At the top of the heap was a 3.0-liter V6 cranking out 200 hp. It was initially available only in the LXi coupe. Standard in convertibles and LXi sedans was the Chrysler-built 2.7-liter V6 rated at 200 hp. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder was also available. In early reviews we praised the Sebring for its good looks, solid performance, competitive pricing and wide range of body styles.
The 1995 through 2000 Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger coupes were the successors to the Chrysler LeBaron coupe and Dodge Daytona, respectively. The name Sebring was originally used on a model of the Plymouth Satellite.
Despite being similar to Dodge's Avenger, the Sebring's suspension was tuned slightly on the softer side, compared to Avenger's stiff suspension. The Sebring had the better ride of the two, because its suspension offered a good balance of comfort and rigidity. Although the Sebring did not really offer true "off-the-line" muscle, it did handle quite well over long, curvy roads, offering minimal body roll, especially LXi models, which featured a slightly differently tuned suspension along with 17 inch wheels wrapped with Good-Year Eagle performance tires.
The Coupe version of the Sebring had seating for 5 and was considered to be one of the larger, more roomy coupes available. Trunk capacity was similar to that of many mid-size cars, capable of handling more than one set of golf clubs.
Although said to be built on a stretched Eagle Talon platform (which is not entirely untrue), it is more accurate to say that their platform was based on the 4-door Mitsubishi Galant platform. However, these cars do share a great deal with their Talon sibling, including much of their dash and instrument panel along with select suspension and steering components.
In 1927, for the first time, Chevy outsold Ford. Chevrolet was the first to include independent front suspension, on their cars, giving riders a much smoother experience. In the 1950's, Chevy introduced the technologies of power brakes, seats and windows, adding a taste of luxury to an affordable car. For info on the current line of Sebrings check out Chrysler.com
This decade also saw the first Corvette. The next achievement for Chevy was to offer the first domestic production car with all-round independent suspension, and it was named the Corvair. Two other hit makers in this era were the compact Nova and the Camaro, Chevrolet's competition to the Ford Mustang. The Camaro made great strides and was a big sales item for the company.
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