Originally Posted By: smc733
Interesting, I really liked the way the Camry drove, though. Even if the accel was a bit slow, I'm not all that interested in performance.
First off, sludge is not an issue with the Camry's 2.4L engine, so don't worry a bit about it. Just like the 61TE transmission in the Sebring doesn't share the reliability issues of the related 41TE, so don't worry about that either.
If you like the Camry, buy the Camry. It's my opinion that we collectively spend too much time on this site arguing about subjective things that only one can decide for one's self. Like how a car drives, how a car looks, how "exciting" a car may or may not be. Those are qualities that you'll have to decide for yourself. I agree with you: the Camry drives "well". It's not a BMW and it's not a Corvette. But it drives well.
In fact, if you want to talk about driving dynamics, the Camry's probably got that on the Sebring anyway. This is from C&D's comparison test from 2007, in which the Sebring finished last of six sedans:
"Did Chrysler put AARP on its design team? Everyone who climbed aboard the Sebring felt it was aimed at buyers for whom Buicks have become too racy...It's also soggy, jiggly, and tipsy in corners as drivers attempt to aim it with steering set on extra-numb. The notebook pen scratched with venom not seen since the last New Yorker."
http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/2007-chrysler-sebring-touring-page-2
Camrys have never been noted to be racy machines, but the Sebring can hardly be classified as a slot car either. The Sebring scored last on the skidpad and tied the Accord for longest braking distances. The extra heft of the V-6 engine won't help either performance metric.
The Sebring and Camry are both aimed at those who prefer comfort over performance. Of the two, the Camry will be the better buy, especially if you can buy them for a similar price. The Camry will hold its value far better than the Sebring will.