New and Pre-owned Dodge Viper for Sale

America's distinct two-seater sports car, the Dodge Viper, emerged from the visionary minds of Lee Iacocca and Carroll Shelby. Locating a Dodge Viper in excellent condition for sale can be challenging, as many of these vehicles have endured rough usage or undergone modifications. At the close of the 1980s, Chrysler was in pursuit of rejuvenating its brand image, and launching a new supercar was deemed the ideal strategy to attract fresh clientele to their showrooms. Since its debut in 1992, the Viper has captivated a generation of car enthusiasts as the unconventional hero.

At the time, Chrysler's ownership of Lamborghini led to the commissioning of a ten-cylinder engine specifically for the Viper. The task of adding two cylinders to the 440 Magnum engine was formidable, resulting in a 90-degree V10 engine with an unusual firing order to maintain balance. The engine featured aluminum cast blocks and heads, operated by a single camshaft controlling the valves.

Carroll Shelby played a crucial role in conceptualizing the Viper, envisioning it as a straightforward GT car. Its design includes independent suspension with coil springs at every corner. The prototype was completed in late 1989, though the first production models were designated as the 1992 model year. The inaugural Viper model boasted simplicity, arriving with a cassette tape player and devoid of windows, a roof, or door handles. Premium aftermarket suppliers contributed to the vehicle's components, including a Momo steering wheel and VDO instrumentation. Borg-Warner developed a robust version of their T-56 six-speed manual transmission, enhancing it with triple-cone synchronizers made from carbon fiber.

The Viper has always been a manual transmission vehicle, known for its heavy clutch pedal. The early models lacked any form of safety equipment, and wide front tires necessitated the offset placement of pedals relative to the driver’s seat. However, its maintenance demands are relatively modest compared to other sports cars, with oil changes and tires being the main upkeep costs. A vibrant aftermarket exists for those looking to customize or boost the Viper's power.

Running from 1992 to 1995, the first-generation Vipers were noted for their lack of conveniences, mirroring a classic Surrey with the fringe on top. Eisenglass windows were used, which could be stored in the trunk. True to roadster style, doors could only be opened from the inside. On the road, these cars offered an addictive driving experience. Once accustomed to the centered pedals, drivers found the clutch predictable, with shifts being short and precise.

Despite its somewhat lighter flywheel making low-speed maneuvers a bit cumbersome, the Viper's true character is revealed once in motion. At the time, its 400 horsepower was considered supercar-level performance. With no modern distractions like speakers or airbags, the first-generation Viper's curb weight was under 3,300 lbs, and it boasted 465 lb-ft of torque, allowing for impressive acceleration even in sixth gear's deep overdrive.

The year 1996 marked an evolution for the Viper, shedding weight and gaining power. The transition from side pipe exhausts to rear mufflers and traditional tailpipes increased horsepower to 415 and torque to 488 lb-ft. A lighter chassis, due to more aluminum and less steel, contributed to a 60 lb weight reduction. The RT/10 roadster was later joined by the new GTS coupe.

Targeted at weekend racers, the Dodge Viper GTS featured a double bubble roof for helmet accommodation. Although it shared the roadster's design language, only 10 percent of its parts were common with the RT/10. It was the first Viper model to include power windows and airbags, yet it lacked ABS and traction control. The V10 engine in the coupe was enhanced to 450 hp, along with several other luxuries.

The American Club Racing (ACR) edition was another special edition aimed at racers. With intake and exhaust upgrades, power was increased to 460 hp and torque to 500 lb-ft. The chassis was lightened by over 50 lbs, and it came with BBS racing wheels. The ACR program started in 1999 and continued until 2017.

In 2003, the Viper underwent a complete redesign, launching as the SRT-10 convertible with a new 8.3L V10 engine delivering 500 hp and 525 lb-ft of torque. This generation introduced sharper angles and a more conventional hood design compared to the original's sensuous curves. A coupe version followed in 2006, echoing the styling of the original GTS coupes, with production lasting until late 2006 before taking a hiatus in 2007.

After engine development throughout 2007, the new Viper launched in 2008 as the SRT-10, featuring an 8.4L V10 with variable valve timing on the exhaust side, boasting 600 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission option was Tremec’s TR-6060, succeeding the T56. Performance significantly improved, with 0-60 mph times reported under 4 seconds. With appropriate drag radials, the SRT-10 could complete the quarter mile in under 11 seconds. Production concluded on July 1st, 2010, leading to another Viper hiatus.

The Viper made a comeback at the 2012 New York Auto Show, with the all-new Viper SRT 10 launching for the 2013 model year as part of Chrysler’s Street & Racing Technology brand. The 8.4L V10 was enhanced to 640 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque. The Viper GTS returned as a premium model, boasting more features than the standard SRT. However, due to strict fuel economy regulations and slow sales, 2016 was announced as the final production year. The ACR model made a triumphant return, dominating Laguna Seca with a top speed of 177 mph—its slowest generation due to significant downforce—celebrated with five special editions for the 25th anniversary.

Despite fluctuating production, the Vipers listed on dupontregistry.com have maintained a robust presence. Resale values vary based on color and options, reflecting the car's iconic status.

The ACR stands as the fastest street-legal Viper track car ever created, featuring an aggressive design matched by a powerful drivetrain. Its focus on aerodynamics is evident in the Extreme Aero Package, which includes a dual-element rear wing, carbon fiber diffuser, and other elements contributing to nearly a ton of downforce at top speed. The Viper ACR's braking capabilities are enhanced with Brembo Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes, boasting the largest pad area ever on a Viper.

Powered by an 8.4-liter V10 engine delivering 645 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque, it holds the title for the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports car engine worldwide. New exhaust tips on the side-mounted pipes reduce exhaust pressure, while the powertrain is completed with a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission. The Viper ACR is Dodge’s pinnacle Viper model, living up to its legendary specifications.