Forgotten Supercar

Chrysler's Bold Gamble

Back in 2004, the Chrysler ME Four-Twelve roared onto the scene with enough horsepower to make performance enthusiasts swoon. It was a prototype that left an indelible mark on the automotive world despite never making it to production. This mid-engine beast packed a 6.0-liter AMG V12 engine, boosted with twin turbochargers to produce a whopping 850 horsepower. It was a tantalizing hint at what Chrysler could achieve during a time when American brands were itching to challenge European sports car dominance.

The Heart of the Machine

The ME Four-Twelve wasn’t just another concept car. It was a fully realized prototype built to stun. This machine could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 2.9 seconds, making it as quick as today’s hypercars. The V12 engine, with its AMG lineage, was a marvel; paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, it channeled all that power to the rear wheels efficiently. The car was light, tipping the scales at just 2,888 pounds, and promised a top speed of 248 mph, figures that would still impress in today’s market.

Experiencing the Drive

Driving the ME Four-Twelve would have been akin to handling a fighter jet on the road. The power delivery was nothing short of exhilarating, with the V12 responding instantly to every touch of the throttle. Cornering would have showcased the advanced engineering, with its lightweight body allowing for agile handling. Pitted against the likes of the Ford GT and European rivals, the ME Four-Twelve could have set a new standard for American supercars.

The Dream Fades

Unfortunately, the excitement behind the ME Four-Twelve was short-lived. Despite the promising reception, Chrysler’s ambitious project never transitioned into a production model. The proposed price range was between $250,000 and $750,000, but garnering enough interest from buyers proved challenging. Chrysler’s leadership at the time expressed hopeful commitments to production, yet the car remains an ‘almost was’ in automotive history.

A Modern Touch

Recently, the idea of the ME Four-Twelve was revisited by independent designer Abimelec Design, who envisioned a modern version with contemporary touches. The refreshed design features a massive rear wing inspired by the Koenigsegg, a striking orange paint job, and updated silver wheels, though remains a digital idea. Stellantis hinted at future experimentation with Chrysler, but nothing so far suggests a return of this legendary concept.

Despite its disappearance, the ME Four-Twelve continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts and remains a testament to Chrysler’s adventurous spirit. While it may never revive, the legacy of the ME Four-Twelve lives on in the what-ifs of car history.