Looks like they even ripped off the exhaust

 

I see your point with the exhaust and maybe a little with the roof line but I see more styling cue's from Mazda.

Can't really call it a rip off.

 

There has been many, many fastback coupes in the sportscar arena over the yars, MGB-GTs for example, the Jaguar XKE coupe, the Stingray Corvettes and the 1963 split window even had a spine down the top and backside. The 63 Corvette coupe also had something I'd wish the Crossfire coupe had, the door opening rolled over into the top for easier entry. As for the center exhaust a host of Euro cars have dealt with center exhaust.

But that Mazda is a nice looking little car anyway. It's just a shame that the current economical conditions of this Republic are such to assist in the demise of the Crossfire.

 

Make no mistake, the demise of the XF was the 2 companies parting ways. MB used the cash reserves of Chrysler, moved a lot of MB out-dated chassis/parts by engineering them into this car. Old technology, but good technology. They made this an economic solution for them, and a good one for them. It was a 4 yr contract and they completed it. If they built that Mazda, the new Mazda 6 we have will bet traded. We have owned 2 of the Mazda 6's, and have only changed the oil as the only maintenance. They were and are our daily drivers. If I ever decide to rid myself of the XF's, I will never by another Chrysler/Chevy...Ford whethered the storm, and Ford will get my business. Mazda is tied to Ford. My next car will be a Mustang 500 of some sort of configuration. But, for now, I am still hooked on my XF's....lol

 

Please note I understand your point and from certain perspectives the simularities are there.
The facts however are this, no company with the leadership of Mazda would invest tens of millions of dollars to copy an automobile that failed so greatly it has been compaired to Fords' Edsel.
Anyone with a designers interest or automobile design knowledge would agree, the auto industry is a follow the leader game. Probelm is there is a front, back, four rubber tires and only 360 degrees of angles available when designing. Most design statements are based on eras. The Crossfire hasn't a single corner, line or accesorie that hasn't been seen before.
Possibly the Cup Holder !
What was once old will be new again.
As I said before, I see your point, and the simularities mentioned in your observation.
Enjoy,
Montana

 

Except the exhaust, I dont know if I see it. Seems more Mazda/ Alfa 8c inspired than XF.

 

When I see that Mazda, I think of this:

 

looks like a beemer to me also

 

HUH...............NOPE


HUH yes for the Z4


HUH let`s go buy some eye glasses, ON ME!

:-)

 

Reminds me more of that new Toyota/Subaru Collaboration the Ft-86
toyota ft-86 - Google Search

I also just placed a picture from the same exact photo shoot of the BMW M Coupe as my Desktop photo. What a coincidence.