Auburn Hills, Mich., Jan 04, 2004 -Dodge Sling Shot is a boldly distinctive new sports car vision from Dodge – one that’s practical, adaptable and, above all, affordable.

Designed from the ground up to be a driver’s car, with the kind of look, feel and responsive drivability that enthusiasts demand, the Sling Shot concept was designed with fuel efficiency being a key part of its basic design.

Dodge Sling Shot is designed for open-air driving with a main roof panel and side rails over the passenger area that can be stored in the trunk (Sling Shot has two storage areas), while a canvas roof panel can slide back and out of the way like a roll top desk for open-air driving.

Efficient, Responsive and Fun to Drive – Genuine Dodge Character:

Sling Shot features a rear-mounted, 3-cylinder, gasoline engine that is tuned to deliver 100 bhp and 0-60 mph time of about 10 seconds due to power to weight ratio of 17.4 lbs/bhp. A five-speed gearbox, rack-and-pinion steering, four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes complete the driver-oriented characteristics contributing to the Sling Shot’s efficient, responsive and fun-to-drive personality at the same time delivering up to 45 mpg.

A “Machined” Interior Look:

The Dodge Sling Shot concept has an interior design influenced by the legacy of Dodge and Chrysler’s performance past – when “blown” HEMI engines dominated the American landscape. Starting out with engine bits for inspiration, Sling Shot’s interior designers combined these elements into an artful blend of visual excitement and tactical pleasure.

“Sling Shot is a dynamic, creative look at the never-ending quest to offer visually exciting design, structural integrity, operating efficiency and the all –important fun-to-drive quotient in an affordable, entry level sports car,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Chrysler Group Design.

Story by DaimlerChrysler