Dodge Viper

Guide Note

First introduced in 1992, Dodge's high-performance Viper sports car goes from zero to 60 m.p.h. in less than four seconds and lists for just over $87,000. It's a two-seater with a 600-horsepower V10 engine that was redesigned with variable valve timing for 2008. Another improvement for 2008 was the improved exhaust system that ultimately keeps the driver and passenger much cooler than in previous models.

Fast Facts

1. Class: Sports car, convertible
2. MSRP: Starts at $87,040
3. Fuel efficiency: 13 mpg (city);
   22 mpg (hwy)
4. Transmission: 6-speed manual
5. Assembled in Detroit, Michigan
6. Designer: Tom Gale
7. Inspiration: AC Cobra of the 1960s
8. First run: 1992
9. Closest competitor: Chevrolet Corvette
10. Dodge: Division of Chrysler

Car and Driver Review:

1. Lists its "highs" for the Viper as its unbridled power, its improved comfortability, and the sheer "wow" factor of the look of the car.
2. "Lows" are the fuel efficiency (or lack thereof), the price, the occasional rough riding experience when on bad roads, and the car's overall livability.
3. The magazine describes the Viper driving experience as "surprisingly easy."
4. C&D;'s road test for speed for the '08 Viper had it outperforming all its nearest competitors' latest models: it's faster than the Corvette, the Porsche 911, the Ford GT and the Audi R8.

Motor Trend Road Test:

1. The fact that the engine's hit the 600-horsepower mark is MT's biggest high point; they remind us that the nearest sports car that equals the Viper in this category is the $300K Lamborghini Murcielago.
2. The magazine calls the addition of variable valve timing to the engine a "major tech coup," the ultimate result being wider powerband, a better idling experience, and "bigger power up the rpm range."
3. MT compares the previous incarnation of the Viper's interior a "convection oven" due to the crossover system of the exhaust running underneath the seats and making it uncomfortably hot for the driver and passenger. The 2008 exhaust redesign fixes the heat problem while maintaining the engine's "exotic" sound.