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- The Beatles hit "Here Comes the Sun" and "Take It Easy" by the Eagles were chosen as the second and third top songs respectively
- Overwhelmingly, 67 percent of respondents prefer to let their hair blow free while driving in a convertible
Auburn Hills, Mich., Jul 27, 2004 - The number one song to cruise top-down to is "Surfin' USA" by the Beach Boys, according to a recent online survey conducted by Chrysler Group, America's convertible company. The survey results were collected as part of a promotion to kick-off Top Down Days - the nation's official celebration of the 2004 convertible season, which recognizes the convertible as the ultimate summer icon - and in conjunction with the introduction of two new Chrysler convertibles, the Chrysler Crossfire Roadster and Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible.
"Chrysler is America's convertible company with more soft-top options than any other automaker," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President. "The Top Down Days survey helps Chrysler Group learn more about the people who are driving our convertibles."
Chrysler Group also invited drivers who took part in the survey to enter the Top Down Days sweepstakes when they visited www.topdowndays.com. Almost two million people played to win the Top Down Days Sweepstakes by clicking on floating balloons, revealing either a fun convertible fact or an automatic entry into the sweepstakes. The sweepstakes began May 21, 2004, and accepted its final entry on July 6, 2004. The Web site will remain active through Labor Day.
As a result of this sweepstakes, Frances Blalock of Pink Hill, N.C., is now the proud owner of a new 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible.
"I am thrilled to be the winner of a new 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible," said Frances Blalock. "I've always wanted a convertible and look forward to enjoying the top-down weather while cruising around with my friends."
Other summer survey results collected on www.topdowndays.com include:
- Road less traveled: The best place to drive a convertible, with 46 percent, was on a winding road followed closely by the beach with 38 percent.
- Seeing red: Given the choice, 44 percent voted red as the top exterior convertible color.
- Star gazing topped the list of best things to do in a convertible with the top down, followed closely by singing along with the radio.
In addition to the summer survey and sweepstakes, the interactive site features expert summer style advice and convertible hair tips, so drivers can take the top down in style this season.
America's Convertible Company
Today, Chrysler Group's heritage of open-top driving is thriving with a selection of convertibles that offer consumers a soft-top option no matter what their preferred style.
- New 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible - same great innovative design as the popular PT Cruiser, it now has a convertible too and a luxuriously refined interior.
- New 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster - combines Chrysler brand's signature design and convertible leadership with proven engineering. For a sophisticated driver looking to get noticed, Crossfire Roadster can drop its top in 22 seconds.
- Chrysler Sebring Convertible - America's most popular convertible, it is ergonomically designed for unmatched driving comfort.
- Dodge Viper Roadster - the ultimate sports car gone topless for the convertible lover with a passion for driving.
07/28/04 Permalink
07/26/04: Got Video?
Got any favorite Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge TV Commercials? You can find recent commercials featuring latest promotions; classic HEMI spots here at Swifts Superstore Video Files Page. Broadband connection recommended.
07/26/04 Permalink

The Rosenfeld family of Los Angeles buries its 1998 sedan in the front yard during a mock funeral for the vehicle on Wednesday, July 21, 2004. The family buried the vehicle to "rust in peace" in exchange for a new Dodge Magnum RT as winners of Dodge's "Bury Your Car" contest. (Photo by Getty Images for Dodge)
Los Angeles and Philadelphia Families Put Cars to Rest in Exchange for All-New 2005 Dodge Magnum RT
Auburn Hills, Mich., Jul 21, 2004 - Some people place classified ads. Others trade in their family vehicle. But what do two whacky families from the City of Angels and the City of Brotherly Love do to replace their cars? They bury them in the front yard.
Today, the Rosenfelds in Hacienda Heights, Calif. (Los Angeles), and the Dooners in Morton, Penn. (Philadelphia), buried their respective vehicles – a 1998 Toyota Camry and 1997 Mercury Mountaineer – tail-side-up in their front yards to show the world how much they want an all-new 2005 Dodge Magnum RT. As winners of Dodge’s Bury Your Car contest, the Rosenfelds and the Dooners bid farewell to their family vehicles in mock funerals complete with pallbearers, a procession and a tombstone bearing the fateful inscription, “Rust In Peace.” In June, Dodge asked entrants why they wanted to put their vehicles to rest and offered winners an all-new 2005 Dodge Magnum RT in exchange.
"The Dodge Magnum is the new shape of American muscle with its bold design, HEMI® V-8 engine, rear-wheel drive and unique tailgate opening,” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President, Marketing – Chrysler Group. “As we demonstrated today, the Dodge Magnum will bury the competition with its exceptional combination of style, performance, handling and versatility. We are thrilled to present the Dooners and the Rosenfelds with the all-new 2005 Dodge Magnum RT, and allow them to experience the unparalleled power of the HEMI.”
07/24/04 Permalink
07/19/04: The best minivan, plain and simple

Detroit Free Press MARK PHELAN: The best minivan, plain and simple"Offering just about every imaginable safety and convenience feature and priced at $36,335, the silver Town & Country Limited I drove was also an excellent value, costing from $700 to about $2,000 less than comparably equipped versions of the Ford Freestar, Nissan Quest and Toyota Sienna. A loaded Honda Odyssey costs several thousand dollars less than the Town & Country Limited, but the Chrysler's price includes several features not available on the Honda, including side-curtain air bags and ultra-so-nice rear-object detection.
...
Like any good card player, though, the Town & Country Limited keeps its best cards hidden. In this case, the ace in the hole is Chrysler's unique new Stow 'n Go seat system, which allows you to fold the rear bench seat and both middle-row captain's chairs down into the floor in moments.
...
...Chrysler is back on top of the market segment it created when the first Plymouth Voyager minivan rolled off the assembly line in 1983."
07/19/04 Permalink
07/19/04: Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6

Car and Driver Magazine : Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 : August 2004"The blended DNA of Daimler-Benz and Chrysler Corporation produced its first offspring in 2003, and hairdressers rejoiced. The Crossfire is just the kind of florid prê-à-porter that appeals to people in the look-good business. To be sure, the Crossfire does look good."
07/19/04 Permalink
R&T First Drives: 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Convertible (7/2004)"The simple act of removing the roof on the Crossfire (okay, not so simple to the manufacturer) has transformed the character of Chrysler's sporty coupe and bodes well for the upcoming high-output version known as the SRT-6."
07/19/04 Permalink
07/15/04: The New Muscle Trucks
Ram Rumble Bee
![]() | Limited Edition Dodge Ram 1500 |
![]() | 345hp 5.7L HEMI® Magnum V8 engine |
![]() | Rumble Bee Badging & Accents |
![]() | 20-inch polished wheels |
![]() | Hood Scoop |
![]() | Only in Black or Solar Yellow |
Rumble Bee Trucks in our stock
HEMI® SPORT QUAD CAB
![]() | Limited-Edition Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Quad Cab |
![]() | 345hp 5.7L HEMI® Magnum V8 engine |
![]() | 20-inch polished wheels |
![]() | Hood Scoop & Running Boards |
![]() | Brushed Aluminum Fuel Door |
![]() | Only in Black, Flame Red or Bright Silver Metallic |
07/15/04 Permalink
07/14/04: Brand Spankin' Used
Purchasing a Dodge, Chrysler, or Jeep Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle from Swift Jeep Chrysler Dodge, a Five Star dealer, gives you peace of mind and factory-backed confidence.
Our Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles come with:
- Best Domestic Certified Program in America – IntelliChoice *
- Factory-backed 8-Year / 80,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty †
- 3-Month / 3,000-Mile Maximum Care® Limited Warranty ‡
- CARFAX® vehicle history report
- Rigorous 125-point inspection
- 24-Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance §
- Car Rental Allowance ¶
- Owner loyalty communications and service coupons
All certified Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge Pre-Owned Vehicles must pass a history check and rigorous 125-point mechanical and appearance inspection. Each is factory backed with an 8-year/80,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. *See us for details and a copy of the warranty. It's an extra layer of security, available only with Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, and a commitment that you can carry with you for many miles to come.
*IntelliChoice rated DaimlerChrysler’s Certified Program for Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge among the best non-luxury pre-owned programs in America, ahead of Ford, Mercury, Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Saturn, Toyota, Mazda, Nissan and Hyundai. IntelliChoice rated DaimlerChrysler’s Certified Program for Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge the best domestic non-luxury pre-owned program in America, ahead of Ford, Mercury, Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Pontiac, Oldsmobile and Saturn. Domestic brands are both originated and based in the United States. IntelliChoice® Inc., (www.intellichoice.com) September 2003 review of 24 manufacturer programs.
†8-Year/80,000-Mile (whichever comes first) Powertrain Limited Warranty runs from date vehicle was sold new. A deductible applies, see us for details.
‡3-Month/3,000-Mile (whichever comes first) Maximum Care® Limited Warranty with $0 deductible runs from date of sale of the vehicle, or at the expiration of the 3/36 Basic Warranty.
The Maximum Care® Limited Warranty covers 5,000-plus components, including all major assembly components and steering, air conditioning, engine cooling/fuel system, front suspension, all electrical systems, all engine computers, shocks, torsion bars, engine mounts, brakes, antilock brakes, instrumentation, rear suspension and all seat, hood, trunk, lid, liftgate, door and window mechanisms.
$0 deductible: You are responsible for $0 of the total cost of covered component repairs performed during each repair visit. The 3-Month/3,000-Mile Maximum Care® Limited Warranty pays the entire cost of covered repairs. For more details and a copy of the limited warranties, see us.
§Administered by Cross Country Motor Club, Inc., Medford, MA 02155. You must call 1-800-521-2779 for prior authorization to receive these benefits.
¶Rental car coverage only if repairs take vehicle out of service more than one day.
07/14/04 Permalink
Brand Unleashes Lowest-Priced V-8 Engine in the Marketplace
- All-new 2005 Dodge Dakota with V-8 Power and Four Doors Priced Below $20,000
- Dodge Adds More Content, Reduces Dakota Pricing by $1,000
Auburn Hills, Mich., Jul 13, 2004 -Yes, you can have a V-8. And four doors. For under $20,000.
Dodge announced pricing today for its all-new 2005 Dodge Dakota, the largest, most powerful and most capable mid-size pickup in the market. With best-in-class torque, horsepower and towing, the all-new 2005 Dodge Dakota delivers full-size pickup styling, feel and power with the only V-8 in its class. The all-new 2005 Dodge Dakota arrives in showrooms this fall.
"Whether we're talking cars, trucks or minivans, Dodge is all about affordable performance," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President, Dodge Marketing. "Dodge offers the all-new 2005 Dodge Dakota with V-8 for $19,995. No other competitor even offers a V-8 engine in the mid-size truck market.
"Combine Dodge Dakota's performance/value equation with its status as the largest, most capable pickup available, and it's clear Dakota has once again defined the mid-size pickup segment."
07/14/04 Permalink
07/13/04: DaimlerChrysler Launches HEMI.com
The Official Web Site for HEMI® Enthusiasts
Auburn Hills, Mich., Jul 12, 2004 - For more than 50 years the HEMI® engine has stood for unparalleled automotive power and performance. In response to the overwhelming interest and popularity of the HEMI engine, DaimlerChrysler has launched the official HEMI.com Web site dedicated to HEMI owners and enthusiasts worldwide (www.HEMI.com).
HEMI.com is an interactive Web site that presents a historical timeline of the evolution of the HEMI engine, beginning with HEMI's inception back in the early 1950s. The development of the legendary 426 HEMI, which revolutionized NASCAR and NHRA racing (and was ultimately banned by NASCAR), is featured, along with the new generation 5.7L HEMI. In addition, Web surfers will find vintage photographs and biographical information featuring the people who were behind the most famous automotive powerplant in the world.
"HEMI.com was created because of the HEMI loyalists around the globe," said Ron McDaniel, Director of Advanced Service and Technical Information, Chrysler Group. "Interest in collectible muscle cars of the '60s and '70s is at an all-time high. We wanted to have a place where HEMI enthusiasts could get the official story of the HEMI, and a new generation of HEMI enthusiasts can find everything they want to know about the HEMI and have fun doing it."
The racing destination within the site includes photos and biographical information featuring the drivers from the world of racing who made the HEMI synonymous with winning. The list includes racing legends Richard Petty, Buddy Baker, Don Garlits, Dick Landy and Sox & Martin and reads like the roster from racing's hall of fame.
For the history buff, the site contains vintage ads from the 1950s and '60s, when Detroit muscle was king. For the more technically minded, HEMI.com contains specifications for the historic HEMI engines and provides graphic details of how these engines managed to produce such incredible power. Visitors to the site can also visit our multimedia section where they can download their favorite HEMI ads and wallpaper images.
"DaimlerChrysler is fortunate to have such passionate and loyal followers who know and love our HEMI engines," said McDaniel. "We expect the Web site to be a popular gathering place among HEMI enthusiasts, old and new."
07/13/04 Permalink
- New All-wheel-drive Choices Added to Line-up for Outstanding Performance in All Weather Conditions
- All-wheel-drive Vehicles to Go On Sale This Fall Starting at $27,900 (MSRP excluding $625 destination)
Auburn Hills, Mich., Jul 12, 2004 -One wheel? Two wheels? Three wheels, four? All wheels your preference? Who needs more? Chrysler Group is rounding out its Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300 family with all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions of the highly popular vehicles.
For those Dodge customers who prefer all-wheel drive, the 2005 AWD Dodge Magnum SXT and AWD Dodge Magnum RT will be introduced this fall. Later in the fourth quarter, Chrysler all-wheel-drive fans will be able to choose from AWD Chrysler 300 Touring and AWD Chrysler 300C models, as well as an AWD package that will be available as an option for the Chrysler 300 Limited.
"The rear-wheel drive Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300 have proven themselves in the marketplace as popular performers all across the United States, and we look to these new all-wheel-drive choices to continue that momentum," said George Murphy, Senior Vice-President, Global Brand Marketing.
By continuously driving all wheels, the new all-wheel-drive system provides excellent cornering balance and traction under all driving conditions. Combined with standard features such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP), All-speed Traction Control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes and Emergency Brake Assist, performance and stability are outstanding in the new AWD members of the Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300 lineup.
"While chassis electronics and tire technology improvements help control our Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum rear-wheel-drive models, some customers may still opt for the all-wheel-drive choice," said Murphy. "With this latest option, we are able to offer what the customer wants in each case."
The new all-wheel drive system adds a front differential and a transfer case to the standard rear-wheel-drive configuration. All-wheel drive continuously divides the power between the front and rear axles at a 38-percent to 62-percent ratio.
In addition to the front differential and transfer case, the all-wheel drive system adds a unique short- and long-arm front suspension to accommodate the front drive axle and related components. This unique suspension uses a forged upper control arm and single-piece case-iron lower control arm, efficiently packaged around the front-axle drive system. The steering gear effort and response and the suspension characteristics also are tuned to the handling characteristics of all-wheel-drive vehicles.
07/12/04 Permalink

..And he lives in Birmingham
Auburn Hills, Mich., Jul 09, 2004 - The designers in the studios at DaimlerChrysler’s Technical Center in Auburn Hills, Mich., have gotten quite used to developing vehicles with the world-renown HEMI® engine.
Now, their lives are imitating art.
The company was approached by the Community House of Birmingham, an independent not-for-profit organization, for a unique fund-raising idea. DaimlerChrysler and other participants were asked to paint or design 40-pound fiberglass dog sculptures that will be placed on Birmingham street corners from July 15 through Oct. 13. The dogs will then be auctioned on Oct. 13 to benefit the Community House at its “OUR TOWN" Gala.
“We were given our dog with design instructions and requirements for painting it,” said DaimlerChrysler’s lead pound keeper on the project, Mark Allen, Senior Manager in the company’s Jeep® studio. “But we’re designers – we don’t do anything by the book and usually see things a bit differently. At that point, we decided to give our dog a bit of horsepower.”
The result was a canine version of the 1970’s television show “The Six Million Dollar Man,” as Allen and his team completely rebuilt HEMIDOG, inserting a mock HEMI engine – complete with chrome exhaust pipes – into the back of its fiberglass Fido and arching its design forward to truly show the illusion of speed and motion.
Allen is quick to note that no real dogs were harmed in the making of HEMIDOG, but it was a bit painful parting with his team’s version of man’s best friend.
“The people in the studio had a great time doing this project and it provided a bit of diversion in our traditionally hectic workdays,” said Eric Kurtz of the Jeep Design Studio and the sculpture of the HEMI-powered pooch. “Creativity is an outstanding gift, but using any talent for such a good cause is simply a bonus.”

07/09/04 Permalink
07/05/04: Chrysler Group June 2004 Sales Increase 1 Percent, Second Quarter Sales Increase 2 Percent
- June 2004 Sales Exceed 2003 Sales by 10,290, all retail
- Monthly Sales Increase Eight of Past Nine Months
- Chrysler Group Achieves Third Consecutive Quarter of Increased Year-Over-Year Sales
- 2004 Year-to-Date Sales Surpass 2003 Year-to-Date Sales by 2 Percent
- Chrysler 300 Sales Continue to Rise; Sales Surpass 12,000 Units for June
- Industry-Leading Dodge Caravan With Stow 'N Go Seating Continues Segment Leadership; Sales Rise 7 Percent
Auburn Hills, Mich., Jul 01, 2004 -Led by consistent monthly, quarterly and year-to-date retail sales results, Chrysler Group reported sales of 209,252 units, an increase of 1 percent over June 2003 sales of 198,962 units. Eight of the past nine months have resulted in sales increases for the Chrysler Group. Quarterly sales for Chrysler Group increased 2 percent to 618,394 units, achieving three consecutive quarters of year-over-year sales growth. Sales are calculated on a day-rate adjusted basis.
"The consistent results this quarter and our rise in monthly retail sales showcase the appeal of our segment leading products," said Gary Dilts, Chrysler Group Senior Vice President - Sales. "These products have established themselves in the market and are the foundation for our improved year-to-date sales."
Chrysler brand posted a new quarterly sales record with 163,138 units, a 21 percent increase over second quarter totals from 2003. For the month, Chrysler brand sales increased 9 percent to 54,314 units. Quickly establishing itself as a leader in its segment, the award-winning Chrysler 300 continued its strong sales momentum, posting sales of 12,065 units for June 2004 and achieving a second consecutive month of sales in excess of 12,000 units.
"The Chrysler 300 has reignited America's passion for cars," said Dilts. "The award of 'Best Sedan' by the readers of Autoweek magazine for the Chrysler 300C confirms what we already knew - that this is a great car."
Jeep® brand sales were 113,901 units for the quarter, an increase of 5 percent over 2003 second quarter sales. Jeep brand sales for the month decreased 5 percent to 33,459 units. Jeep Liberty posted record monthly sales of 13,579 units during June, an increase of 7 percent.
For the quarter, 341,355 Dodge brand vehicles were sold, decreasing 5 percent. For the month, Dodge brand sales declined 1 percent. The industry leading Dodge Caravan with Stow N' Go seating posted sales of 74,415 units during the second quarter, an increase of 7 percent over second quarter 2003. For the month, Dodge Caravan sales increased 7 percent to 25,652 units.
"Our retail sales increase for the Dodge brand is driven by Caravan, Durango and now, Magnum sales," said Dilts.
The new shape of American muscle, Dodge Magnum, is arriving at dealerships daily with the legendary Hemi® V-8 engine and rear-wheel drive. Anticipation for the arrival of the Magnum is high, with dealer orders for the vehicle exceeding 38,000 units.
"The major economic indicators are hitting all cylinders now," said Dilts. "The economy is gaining momentum, consumer confidence is at its highest levels since June 2002, while the employment picture looks solid. Plus, we've got the right products at the right time."
Chrysler Group finished the month with 605,600 units of inventory, a 72 day supply.
07/05/04 Permalink




