People may wonder why on earth a Mustang owner would be so interested
in Chrysler and their products. The answer can be found simply byt
taking a look at the vehicles they offer. Here we have a company who is
leaps and bounds ahead of other automakers in terms of design,
capability, and value for the money. It also doesn't hurt that they
treat journalists very, very well.
In September, I experienced the opportunity of a lifetime. I ventured to Auburn Hills, Michigan, for a long-awaited interview with the SRT (Street and Racing Technology) team. I was armed with a notebook full of questions and concerns, my trusty camera, and a fully-loaded Avenger R/T AWD, which was provided to me for a week-long test.
Prior to the interview, my husband and I were directed to the Walter P.
Chrysler Museum. This was arranged through the same individual who
coordinated our meeting with SRT. From the moment we walked through the
door, we were treated with the kind of respect usually only displayed
towards the rich, famous, or important. Our Docent Doreen gave us an
overview of the museum, and explained that if we would spiral through
the lower level, and continue to the upper level, we would see history
unfold in chronological order.
For those who have never visited the museum, I would *highly* recommend
it. Just think of the Walter P. Chrysler Museum as the Smithsonian of
automotives. If you have a spouse that might prefer pottery over
automobilia, never fear. Regardless of whether or not you have an
interest in cars, the museum offers a taste of nostalgia that anyone
can appreciate.
While the display of vehicles is certainly the highlight of the
exhibits, the hands-on displays are amazing. These displays are
oriented in stations; each with a sign describing the purpose of the
display. For example, one display featured two steering wheels; one
with power assist, one manual. Another featured three miniature cars
from various time periods with a liquified sand that flowed over the
bodies, creating a nice visual on how aerodynamics work. Small video
screens also play corresponding footage near the displays. The one that
deals with innovative ideas was quite interesting. Prior to watching
the film, I had no idea that at one time, vehicles could be ordered
with cigarette dispensers built into the steering wheel, or "female
editions" featuring rain slickers and umbrellas!
The basement of the museum features a wide array of racecars, including
the legendary "Color Me Gone" 1972 Dodge Charger. Engine stands hold
some of the first production Hemi engines, the later 426 Hemi, and even
a modern 5.7L Hemi, sectioned so that visitors can view the internals.
Also on display was a very early engine dynamometer, which looked very
complicated compared to the versions we are all accustomed to. The
elevator leading from the ground floor to the basement is striking,
simply because I've never seen an elevator of that size in my lifetime!
Obviously, it is used to move cars from one floor to another, which
made the idea even more appealing to a gearhead like me.
The museum is something that everyone should experience. It may not be
an amusement park, a ski lodge, or another stereotypical family
vacation locale. However, it's important that each and every one of us
has the opportunity to visualize the evolution of the automobile,
courtesy of some excellent work from Chrysler corporation.
For information on a museum tour, visit chryslerheritage.com
By Michelle Wingard
Askpatty.com Automotive Expert Advisor
auburn hills michigan
