Very thought provoking thread.

Personally, I think the Chrysler purchase was a mistake, but its too late to take back economically from a business view.

So, I do have a few suggestions - some based on other suggestions above:

1) Leverage the Chrylser-Mercedes relationship. Put a Mercedes diesel engine into the Dodge Dakota pickup truck. Make sure everyone KNOWS it is a Mercedes diesel - they will FLY off the lot.

2) The C-class is not a Mercedes. It belongs in the Chrysler brand. It and the Neon appear to be merging anyway.

3) A hybrid is a good suggestion. I suggest a hybrid diesel-electric. A nice, small, smooth 4-cylinder diesel with electric assist. If gasolene hybrids get 50+ mpg, diesel hybrids should get 70.

4) Chrysler makes money from "retro" models all the time. Like the PT Cruiser. Volkswagon has the "retro" Beetle. How about a "retro" W123? Is there enough steel left on the planet?

Ken300D