Dodge Viper
| Manufacturer | Chrysler Corporation (1992–1998) DaimlerChrysler (1998–2006) Chrysler LLC/Chrysler Group LLC(2008–2010, 2012–) |
|---|---|
| Production | 1991–2010, 2012– |
| Assembly | Detroit, Michigan, United States |
| Class | Sports car |
| Layout | Front mid-engine, rear-wheel drive |
| Engine | 7.998 L (488.1 cu in) – 8.4 L (510 cu in) V10 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Designer | Tom Gale |
The Dodge
Viper (renamed
'SRT Viper' as of 2012) is one of the first V10-powered
cars in the world, made by the Dodge division ofChrysler. Production
of the two seat sports car began at New Mack Assembly in 1991 and moved to its
current home at Conner Avenue Assembly in October 1995. The car, and numerous
variations, has made many appearances in TV shows, video games, movies, and
music videos. Although
Chrysler considered ending production because of financial problems, chief executive Sergio Marchionne announced and showed on
September 14, 2010 a redesign of the Viper for 2012.
Development
The Viper was conceived as a historical take on the classic
American sports car. The iconic AC Cobra was a source of inspiration,
and the final version of the Viper bears this out with its powerful engine,
minimalist straightforward design, muscular and aggressive styling, and high
performances. Some saw claims to kinship with the Cobra as a marketing exercise, ignoring that Carroll Shelby was heavily involved in the
initial design of the Viper, and subsequent design of the Viper GTS coupe.
Notably, the later (1996 through 2002) Viper GTS coupe took a few design cues
from the Pete Brock designed Shelby Cobra Daytona
Coupe. Though the proportions seem similar at first glance, the designs are
quite unique. Carroll Shelby was key in the development of the RT/10 as well as
having a hand in the development of the GTS (Viper Coupe) model.
The Viper was initially conceived in late 1988 at Chrysler's
Advanced Design Studios. The following February, Chrysler president Bob Lutz suggested to Tom Gale at Chrysler Design that the
company should consider producing a modern Cobra, and a clay model was
presented to Lutz a few months later. Produced in sheet metal by Metalcrafters, the car appeared as a concept at the North American International Auto Show in 1989. Public reaction was so
enthusiastic, that chief engineer Roy Sjoberg was directed to develop it as a
standard production
vehicle.
Sjoberg selected 85 engineers to be "Team Viper,"
with development beginning in March 1989. The team asked the then-Chrysler
subsidiary Lamborghini to cast some prototype aluminum
blocks based on Dodge's V10 truck engine for sports car use in May. The
production body was completed in the fall, with a chassis prototype running in
December. Though a V8 was first used in the test mule, the V10,
which the production car was meant to use, was ready in February 1990.
Official approval from Chrysler chairman Lee Iacocca came in May 1990. One year
later, Carroll Shelby piloted a pre-production
car as the pace vehicle in the Indianapolis 500 race. In November 1991, the car
was released to reviewers with first retail shipments beginning in January
1992.
First generation RT/10 (1992–1995)
First Generation Viper RT/10
 |
|
Production
|
1992–1995
|
2-door roadster
|
|
7.998 L (488.1 cu in) V10
400 bhp (298 kW) 465 lb·ft (630 N·m) |
|
6-speed manual
|
|
96.2 in (2,440 mm)
|
|
Length
|
175.1 in (4,450 mm)
|
Width
|
75.7 in (1,920 mm)
|
Height
|
44.0 in (1,120 mm)
|
3,284 lb (1,490 kg)
|
|
The first prototype was tested in January 1989. It debuted in
1991 with two pre-production
models as the pace car for the Indianapolis 500 when Dodge was forced to
substitute it in place of the Japanese-built Stealth because of complaints from the United
Auto Workers, and went on sale in January 1992 as the RT/10 Roadster.
The centerpiece of the car was its engine. It was based on the Chrysler
LA design, which was a truck engine. The original configuration made
it too heavy for sports car use, so Lamborghini,
then owned by Chrysler Corporation, revamped Dodge's cast-iron block V10 for the Viper by recasting the
block and head in aluminum alloy. Some within Chrysler felt the pushrod two-valve design, while
adequate for the truck application, was unsuitable for a performance car and
suggested a more comprehensive redesign which would have included four valves
per cylinder. Chrysler, however, was uncertain about the Viper's production costs
and sales potential and so declined to provide the budget for the modification.
The engine weighed 711 lb (323 kg) and produced
400 bhp (300 kW) at 4600 rpm and 465 lb·ft (630 N·m)
at 3600 rpm, and thanks to the long-gearing allowed by the engine, provided
fuel economy at a United States Environmental Protection Agency-rated
12 mpg-US(20 L/100 km;
14 mpg-imp) city and 20 mpg-US (12 L/100 km;
24 mpg-imp) highway. The body was a tubular steel frame with resin transfer molding (RTM) fiberglass panels. Some small bits of the
suspension, (tie-rod ends and parts of the front
wheel hubs) following the manufacturer's "engine first" mantra, were
sourced from the Dodge Dakota pickup. It had a
curb weight of 3,284 lb (1,490 kg) and lacked all modern driver aids
such as traction control or anti-lock brakes. Car and Driver magazine referred to this
generation as "the world's biggest Fat Boy Harley", and
likened driving it to "playing ping pong with a Louisville
Slugger baseball
bat." Despite this, in straight line performance, it completed a quarter
mile (402 m) in 12.6 seconds and had a maximum speed of over 180 mph
(290 km/h). Its large tires allowed the car to average close to 1 lateral g in corners, placing it among
the elite cars of its day. However, the car proved tricky to drive at high
speeds, particularly for the unskilled.
The car was spartan, although it featured inflatable lumbar
support and adjustable seats. Along with the absence of exterior door handles,
the vehicle lacked side windows and a roof. Although a soft top cover was
available, it was designed primarily for indoor vehicle storage. Side curtains
of fabric and clear plastic operated by zippers could be inserted into the door
and hand-bolted when needed. All of these decisions were made to reduce weight.
The battery is located in the sealed compartment over the rear wheel well to
increase rear-end weight and traction. The car shipped with a tonneau cover and
video tape on soft-top assembly (the soft top is removable and folds to fit in
the trunk). In 1994 A/C was added as an option.
Performance
Dodge Viper first generation
§
0-60 mph
(97 km/h): 4.6 sec
§
0-100 mph
(160 km/h): 9.2 sec
§
quarter
mile: 12.9 sec @ 113.8 mph (183.1 km/h)
§
top
speed: 184 mph (296 km/h)
§
700 ft
(210 m) slalom: over 66 mph (106 km/h)
§
skidpad
average g: 0.96
Second generation, Phase II SR (1996–2002)
Second Generation, Phase II SR Viper RT/10,
GTS
 |
|
Production
|
1996–2002
|
7.998 L (488.1 cu in) V10 OHV
415 bhp
(309 kW; 421 PS)
(Viper RT/10 1996–1997 only) 450 bhp (336 kW; 456 PS) (Viper GTS 1996–2002) (Viper RT/10 1998–2002) |
|
6-speed manual
|
|
96.2 in
(2,440 mm)
|
|
Length
|
175.1 in (4,450 mm) (1996–99 RT/10)
176.4 in (4,480 mm) (2000–02 RT/10) 176.7 in (4,490 mm) (GTS) |
Width
|
75.7 in
(1,920 mm)
|
Height
|
44.0 in
(1,120 mm) (RT/10)
47.0 in (1,190 mm) (GTS) |
A coupe model called the GTS was introduced in 1996. Dubbed "double bubble",
the roof featured slightly raised sections above each seat to accommodate usage
of helmets, a throwback to its intended purpose. Vipers can be seen
participating often in drag racing androad racing. The GTS, like its predecessor, was
chosen as the pace car for the 1996 Indianapolis 500.
Despite its similar outward appearance, the car was distinct
enough to be considered a new generation model.[citation needed] Extensive modifications
included a reworked engine with higher power and less weight, an almost
completely redesigned chassis that was made 60 lb (27 kg) lighter and
25% stiffer in torsional rigidity through meticulous computer analysis, a thoroughly
redesigned suspension, and reduced braking distances; the 1996 to 2002 Viper
GTS had a lighter (approximately 650 lb (290 kg)) 450 bhp
(340 kW) engine, which could complete the quarter mile in 12.3 seconds,
0.3 seconds and 16 mph (26 km/h) faster than its predecessor, and
increased top speed by 11 mph (18 km/h) or so. The revised
suspension, stiffer chassis, and aerodynamic body raised lateral grip to 0.98 g(9.6 m/s²), although other
reports show the 1992 model with 1.0 g. Contemporary tires have improved upon this
measure significantly. Slalom runs could often reach or exceed 70 mph
(110 km/h). Brakes once again lacked ABS initially, and proved to be the
car's weakest point. The brakes hurt the car in numerous comparison tests, such
as a 1997 "supercar comparison" by Motor Trend, in which the Viper
GTS placed at the top against cars such as the Ferrari
355, Chevrolet
Corvette, Porsche 911 Turbo, Acura NSX-T, Mitsubishi 3000GT,
and the Toyota Supra in all performance exercises
except braking. The car not only placed last, but had considerably longer
stopping distances than other vehicles. ABS was introduced further into the
production run, though braking performance was not necessarily significantly
improved. In a Sports Car International comparison conducted in 2002, the Viper
ACR (with ABS) was compared to the 911 GT2 at Thunderhill Raceway Park. Both
cars were very capable, and quick around the test track, but the Viper proved
more difficult to drive, and the braking system was blamed very specifically
for the gap in lap times (approximately GT2: 2 minutes, ACR: 2:04) between
the two cars.
Along with the updated performance came the inclusion of some
of the "luxuries" the car did without before. Dual front airbags were
added to the vehicle's safety equipment list in 1996 on the GTS and 1997 on the
RT/10 as mandated by the government. The car was also exported to Europe, where
it was rebadged as a Chrysler, and sold under this marque from 1997 to 2003.
European models had a detuned version of the Viper V10.
In the first six years of production almost 10,000 Vipers
were sold. Minor evolutionary changes including new 18" diameter wheels
and tires were introduced in the 1999 model. Subsequent versions featured
light-weight hypereutectic pistons and an improved exhaust system, side exhaust
having been dropped part way through production year 1996 for the RT/10; all
production GTS Viper Coupes had rear exit exhaust. 1999 saw the introduction of
the Cognac Connolly leather interior package. Continuing the refinements, ABS
was introduced in 2001. In 2002, the end of second generation production was
celebrated with the release of 360 commemorative "Final Edition"
models. These models were painted red with white stripes, paying tribute to the
famous race-winning Oreca cars. The RT/10 was replaced by the SRT-10 in 2003
and the GTS was replaced in 2006 by the SRT-10 Coupe.
Performance (GTS)
Dodge Viper second generation, phase II SR
§
0-60 mph
(97 km/h): 4.0 sec
§
0-100 mph
(160 km/h): 8.6 sec
§
quarter
mile: 12.2 sec @ 119 mph (192 km/h)
§
top
speed: 185 mph (298 km/h)
§
slalom:
73.6 mph (118.4 km/h)
§
skidpad
average acceleration: 1.01 g (9.9 m/s²)
Third generation ZB
(2003–2006)
Third Generation Viper SRT-10
 |
|
Also called
|
Dodge SRT-10 (UK)
|
Production
|
2003–2006
|
505 cu in (8.3 L) V10
500 hp (370 kW) @ 5600 rpm 525 lb·ft (712 N·m) @ 4200 rpm (SRT-10 Roadster) 510 hp (380 kW) @ 5600 rpm 535 lb·ft (725 N·m) @ 4200 rpm (SRT-10 Coupe) |
|
T56 Tremec 6-speed manual
|
|
98.8 in (2,510 mm)
|
|
Length
|
175.6 in (4,460 mm)
|
Width
|
75.7 in (1,920 mm)
|
Height
|
47.6 in (1,210 mm) (coupe)
48.6 in (1,230 mm) (SRT-10) 48.6 in (1,230 mm) (convertible) |
3,380 lb (1,530 kg)
|
|
See also: Street and Racing Technology
The Dodge
Viper underwent
a major redesign in 2003, courtesy of DaimlerChrysler's Street and Racing Technology group. The new Viper SRT-10,
which replaced both the GTS and the RT/10 was heavily restyled with sharp,
angled bodywork. The engine's displacement was increased to 505 cu in
(8.3 L) which, with other upgrades,
increased output to 500 bhp (370 kW) and 525 lb·ft
(712 N·m). Despite the power increases, engine weight was reduced to about
500 lb (230 kg). The chassis was also improved, becoming more rigid
and weighing approximately 80 lb (36 kg) less than the previous
model. An even lighter and stronger chassis was planned, but was abandoned
because of cost (parts from the planned suspension were used in the Hennessey Viper Venom 1000 Twin Turbo.) The
initial model was a convertible. In 2004 Dodge introduced a limited-edition
Mamba package; Mamba-edition cars featured black interiors, with red stitching
and trim and price increased by about MSRP US$3000.
200 Mambas were produced.
The Viper
SRT-10 Coupe was
introduced at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show as a 2006 model. It shares many
of its body panels with the convertible, but takes its side and rear styling
from the Competition Coupe. The coupe looks much like the previous Viper GTS
and retains the "double-bubble" roof shape of the original along with
the original GTS's tail lights, as well as offering the original GTS Blue with
white stripes paint scheme on the initial run of First Edition cars like the
original Viper coupe. The engine is SAE-certified
to produce 510 bhp (380 kW) and 535 lb·ft (725 N·m). Unlike
the original coupe, the chassis was not modified. This makes the coupe heavier
than the convertible, and thus slightly slower to accelerate. Handling and
high-speed performance are improved by the coupe's stiffer frame, reduced drag,
and increased downforce.
No 2007 model Vipers were produced; instead, Chrysler
extended production of the 2006 model while preparing the updated 2008 model.
Performance
Viper 8.3L Engine
Dodge Viper third generation (SRT-10 roadster)
§
0-60 mph
(97 km/h): 3.9 sec
§
0-100 mph
(160 km/h): 8.36 sec
§
quarter
mile: 11.77 sec @ 123.68 mph (199.04 km/h)
§
top
speed: 189.5 mph (305.0 km/h)
§
slalom:
70.4 mph (113.3 km/h)
§
skidpad
average acceleration: 1.05 g (10.3 m/s2)
§
100–0:
274 ft (84 m)
Dodge Viper third generation (SRT-10 coupe)
§
0-60 mph
(97 km/h): 3.8 sec
§
0-100 mph
(160 km/h): 8.36 sec
§
quarter
mile: 11.77 sec @ 123.68 mph (199.04 km/h)
§
top
speed: 192.6 mph (310.0 km/h)
§
slalom:
70.4 mph (113.3 km/h)
§
skidpad
average acceleration: 1.05 g (10.3 m/s2)
§
100–0:
274 ft (84 m)
Dodge Viper third generation Chipa Edition Red line
§
0-60 mph
(97 km/h): 3.5 sec
§
0-100 mph
(160 km/h): 8.1 sec
§
quarter
mile: 11.54 sec @ 123.68 mph (199.04 km/h)
§
top
speed: 199 mph (320 km/h)
§
slalom:
70.9 mph (114.1 km/h)
§
skidpad
average acceleration: 1.05 g (10.3 m/s2)
§
100–0:
274 ft (84 m)
Fourth generation, Phase II ZB (2008–2010)
Fourth Generation, Phase II Viper SRT-10
 |
|
Production
|
2008–2010
|
510 cu in (8.4 L) V10
600 bhp (450 kW) @ 6000 rpm 560 lb·ft (760 N·m) @ 5600 rpm |
|
TR6060 6-speed manual
|
|
98.8 in (2,510 mm)
|
|
Length
|
175.6 in (4,460 mm)
|
Width
|
75.7 in (1,920 mm)
|
Height
|
47.6 in (1,210 mm) (coupe)
48.6 in (1,230 mm) (SRT-10) 48.6 in (1,230 mm) (convertible) |
3,460 lb (1,570 kg) (base)
3,408 lb (1,546 kg) (ACR) |
|
In 2008, with the introduction of the 510 cu in
(8.4 L) V10, the Viper produced 600 bhp (450 kW) at 6000 rpm and
560 lb·ft (760 N·m) at 5100 rpm, and also received better flowing
heads with larger valves, Mechadyne cam-in-cam variable valve timing on the exhaust cam lobes, and dual electronic
throttle bodies. The rev limit could be
increased by 300 rpm due to the improved valve-train stability from both
the new camshaft profiles and valve-springs. The engine was developed with some
external assistance from McLaren
Automotiveand Ricardo Consulting Engineers. Electronic engine
control is developed by Continental AG; the controller can monitor the
crankshaft and cylinder position up to six times during each firing and has 10
times more processing power than the previous unit.
Changes outside of the engine were less extreme. The Tremec
T56 transmission was replaced with a new Tremec TR6060 with triple first-gear
synchronizers and doubles for higher gears. The Dana
M44-4 rear
axle from the 2003–2006 model now has a GKN ViscoLok speed-sensing
limited-slip differential that greatly helps the tires in getting grip under
acceleration. Another performance upgrade was the removal of run-flat tires; the
new Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires increased
grip and driver feedback and, along with revised suspension (springs, anti-roll
bars, and shock valving), made the Viper more neutral in cornering.
The modifications made to the 2008 model year car were enough
for Chrysler to make it distinct from the first SRT-10, and the 2008 model
became known as Gen IV,[citation needed] just in time for release with
Chevrolet's 638 hp (476 kW) Corvette ZR1.
Another notable change is the reworking of the exhaust system; previous
third-generation Vipers had their exhaust crossover under the seats which
resulted in a large amount of heat going into the cockpit, which was done
initially to help improve the car's exhaust note, since the first 2 generations
of Viper, which had no crossover, were criticized for their lackluster exhaust
notes. The 2008 Viper exhaust utilized a new exhaust system with no crossover,
reducing the heat that enters the cockpit.
The electrical system was completely revised for 2008.
Changes included a 180-amp alternator, twin electric cooling fans, electronic
throttles, and completely new VENOM engine management system. CAN bus
architecture has been combined with pre-existing systems to allow for
regulatory compliance. The fuel system was upgraded to include a
higher-capacity fuel pump and filtration system.
Car and Driver magazine tested the car, and
found a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time of 3.5 seconds, a 0-100 mph
(160 km/h) time of 7.6 seconds, and a quarter-mile time of 11.5 seconds at
126 mph (203 km/h). Dodge's claims for top speed
are 197 mph (317 km/h) and 202 mph (325 km/h), for the
Roadster and Coupe respectively. Car and Driver also tested the Viper's track performance, and
managed a fast sub-3 minute lap time around Virginia International Raceway. The Viper's time,
despite hot weather, was faster than theCorvette Z06, Ford GT, Nissan GTR, Porsche 911 Turbo,
911 GT3, and 911 GT2, Audi
R8, and similar cars. According to Car and Driver and Motor
Trend, the
car's slightly adjusted suspension setup and new differential gave it cornering
ability as sharp as before with better control, feedback, and response.
On November 4, 2009, Dodge Car Brand President and CEO Ralph
Gilles had announced that the Viper would end production in the summer of 2010.
On February 10, 2010, Dodge began accepting orders for the
Viper SRT10 "Final Edition" models. Only 50 of these units will be
produced (20 coupes, 18 roadsters and 12 ACRs). "Final Edition" cars
carried the special build code, "AXZ", and were to be the very last
of the Viper cars. "Final Edition" Vipers were available in SRT10
Coupe and Convertible configurations.
July 1, 2010 brought about the then-end of production for the
Generation 4 Dodge Viper. During an event hosted by Dodge and the Viper Club of
America, the final production Gen 4 Viper, which was given a gold finish and
accentuated by contrasting orange stripes, rolled off the assembly line and was
presented before attendees of the ceremony. Its completion commemorated the end
of the production run of the Gen 4 Viper.
Performance (2008 base
model)
The 8.4 Viper V10 Engine with
dual throttle bodies/intake manifolds and 600HP
Dodge Viper fourth generation, phase II
§
0–60
mph (0–97 km/h): 3.4 sec
§
0–100
mph (0–160 km/h): 7.6 sec
§
quickest
quarter mile: 10.92 sec @ 127.79 mph (205.66 km/h)
§
top
speed: 202 mph (325 km/h)
§
slalom:
74.2 mph (119 km/h)+
§
skidpad
average acceleration: 1.06 g (10.4 m/s²)
§
100–0
mph (160–0 km/h): 270 ft (82 m)
Fifth generation (2012–)
At a dealer conference on September 14, 2010 in Orlando, Florida,
Chrysler Group and Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne was reported to have concluded his remarks
by unveiling a rolling 2012 Dodge Viper prototype to dealer applause. There
would be no 2011 Vipers instead rebooting the brand in model year 2012. Initial
speculation of similarities to the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione supercar, was refuted by SRT head Ralph
Gilles in the Detroit News on December 1, 2010. Key quotes from the Detroit
News piece from Ralph Gilles that hint to the future of the brand include:
§
"The
new Viper is not based on anything else".
§
"The
Viper cabin is very rearward and the hood is very long. Few cars in the
industry are designed with those proportions anymore."
§
"I
want the new Viper to be a more forgiving car to drive and accessible to more
people. We've never had stability control on a high-performance car, which is
about to happen on the new car."
The Viper was also on display for one night only in Salt Lake
City, UT at the 11th Viper Owners Invitational or VOI 11 from
09/31/2010-10/03/2010. CEO Ralph Gilles was present gathering feedback from the
owners themselves on new exterior design of the snake. The Generation 5 badge
was unveiled as well at this event on each dining table in the enormous hall.
In Autumn of 2011, Ralph Gilles announced that the Gen V
Viper would debut at the New York Auto Show in April 2012 . In Jan 2012, Gilles announced
that Street and Racing Technology will become a separate brand
within Chrysler, with the Gen V Viper as its halo vehicle.
Europe
The second generation, phase II SR Vipers were exported to
Europe, where they were sold as Chryslers.
The third generation, phase I ZB Viper was being sold in
Europe during 2005–2006, the first model to be sold as a Dodge, as part of
Chrysler's new sales strategy for the European market. In the United Kingdom it
is referred to as a Viper, but it is actually sold as
the Dodge SRT-10, as the Viper name is a
registered trademark in the UK. Prodrive currently handles the
importation and modification of Vipers to meet European laws.
Variants
Viper GT2
In order to meet FIA homologation requirements, as well as to celebrate Chrysler
winning the 1997 FIA GT2 class championship, 100 modified Viper
GT2 Championship Edition street-legal cars were sold. These upgraded
GTS cars were rated at 460 hp (343 kW) and 500 lb·ft (678 N·m) of torque. They had bodywork with similar
appearance to the GTS-R, with the same color scheme, aerodynamics package, and
visual options, in order to publicize the Viper's achievement in the FIA
GT Championship.
Viper ACR
The back of the new Dodge Viper
ACR at the 2009 North American International Auto Show.
The American Club Racing (ACR) model was introduced in 1999.
This model had suspension and engine enhancements focused on maximizing
performance in road racing and autocross environments. Horsepower was, by the
use of K&N air filters and smooth intake tubes, bumped to 460 hp
(370 kW) in these models, while torque increased to 500 lb·ft (678
N·m). Weight was reduced by over 50 pounds (23 kg) by stripping the
interior and removing other non-essential items such as the fog lamps
(replacing them with brake ducts). The new stiffer, adjustable suspension
removed another 14 pounds (6.4 kg) These models, which also have engine
and handling modifications, has an "ACR" badge and 20-spoke BBS
wheels.
A new ACR was added to the Viper line-up after the 2008 model
year. Its upgrades were more drastic than the original, including street-legal
racing tires, two-piece brake rotors, adjustable suspension, and significant
aerodynamic revision. No engine modifications were made, so power and torque
remain at 600 hp (450 kW) and 560 lb·ft (760 N·m) as in the
standard SRT-10. The ACR is street-legal, and is similar to the MOPAR Viper
that Dodge displayed at various auto shows. Weight was also decreased by
40 lb (18 kg) by using the "Hardcore Package", without
radio, speakers, amplifier, trunk carpet, hood pad or tire-inflator. Its
aerodynamic upgrades produce about 1200 lbf (4.4 kN) of down-force at
150 mph (240 km/h), or roughly 10 times the downforce the standard
Viper SRT-10 can produce at the same speed. The interior was upgraded only by
the addition of a beacon-tripped lap timer (Hardcore Edition Only).
The Viper ACR was built alongside the standard SRT-10 at the
Conner Avenue plant in Detroit. The aerodynamic components were produced by
Plasan Carbon Composites and assembled to the vehicle by Prefix Corporation located
in Rochester Hills, Michigan.
On September 14, 2011, on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, a 2010 Dodge
Viper SRT10 ACR captured the fourth fastest production car lap record with a
7:12.13 elapsed time.
Viper ACR-X
To commemorate the end of the second generation Viper and
mend the gap from the car's production end until the release of the new car,
Dodge offered an improved version of the ACR specifically designed to run in
the Dodge Viper Cup Series. This car, named Viper
ACR-X, added to the basic ACR 40 hp (30 kW), a new set of
downforce-enhancing front canards, and new materials that, along with a
stripped interior, reduced weight to 3,300 lb (1,500 kg). It is a
purpose-built race car, and is not street-legal. According to Dodge, the car
beat the regular record-holding ACR around Laguna
Seca by
about three seconds (1:33.9 to 1:31). Price increased by US$12,000, to
$110,000. Production was planned for the spring of 2010.
Mopar Concept Coupe
"Mopar Concept Coupe"
Viper at the 2007Detroit
Auto Show
A prototype 2008 Mopar Viper Coupe, with 675 hp
(503 kW), appeared at the 2007 North American International Auto Show, but is
not planned for production. This concept appears to have been a sneak peek at
the Viper ACR. Performance parts from this car are sold by Mopar.
SRT-10 Carbon
For the 2003 SEMA show, Chrysler displayed a highly tuned Viper
SRT-10 in coupe form. The vehicle's name comes from the carbon fiber used to
reduce the weight by 150 lbs (total down to 3200 lbs). However, even
more significant were the engine modifications, which increased power to
625 hp; no torque or RPM figures were given. Along with the carbon fiber
hardtop, a front splitter and rear spoiler were added, however these parts were
not nearly as significant as those on the later SRT-10 ACR, and no
downforce/drag information was provided to show that they were even functional.
The car was a concept only, and never produced.
Firepower
Main article: Chrysler
Firepower
The Chrysler
Firepower was a
grand touring concept based on the Viper chassis that would have been equipped
with the Hemi V-8, with automatic transmission. Price would have been
slightly lower than other models.
Copperhead
Main article: Dodge Copperhead
The Dodge Copperhead was a concept car based on the
Viper platform that was intended as a cheaper, more nimble car. It was powered
by a 220 hp 2.7L V6 engine instead of the Viper's V10. It never reached
production. Dodge produced a limited-production Copperhead Edition Dodge Viper,
with copper-colored paint similar to the concept car and other changes.
Zagato Alfa Romeo TZ3
Stradale
Designed by Zagato, the Alfa
Romeo TZ3 Stradale is the
fourth model in Zagato's TZ line and serves as Zagato's tribute to the 100th
anniversary of Alfa Romeo. The car itself is based on the Viper ACR-X but with
a new carbon fiber body. As planned, only 9
vehicles will be built.
Recognition
§
2008
Most Expensive Car for Repair Costs,
§
The
25,000th Viper is owned by Kurt Busch and the milestone was
commemorated by Bob Nardelli,
Chrysler LLC Chairman, in a ceremony at the Conner plant in March 2008.
Production
Dodge Viper production began in May 1992 at the New Mack
Assembly Plant and was moved to Conner Avenue in October 1995. Viper V-10
engine production was transferred from Mound Road Engine to Conner Avenue
Assembly in May 2001.
It was reported that Chrysler had intended to cease
production of Dodge Viper in December 2009 and to sell off the Viper brand.
Originally, Devon Motor Works was the only bidder, bidding
$5.5 million. However, following the Chrysler
Group LLC's acquisition of Viper assets, the company announced it was no
longer pursuing a sale of the Viper business assets and continuing the
production of Dodge Viper SRT10. Nevertheless, Devon Motor Works
later unveiled a Dodge Viper-based Devon
GTX, as 2010 model. The special-edition Viper,
called the Viper ACR-X, was produced to celebrate its last year and was
delivered at a Viper Days event at Gingerman Raceway in June 2010. This special
model is for track use only and is the spec car for the Dodge Viper Cup, and
has an additional 40 horsepower (640 hp (477 kW)).
In 2012 a new Viper or replacement is expected.
