The Dodge Viper was introduced as a concept car in 1989, and the public sales of the car began in 1992. It was initially only produced as a convertible, but a fixed-roof version labeled the GTS saw production in 1996. Around the same time, Dodge put together the Viper GTS-R race car, which they designed to compete in GT racing around the world.
Second Generation
In 2003, the second generation model was produced, which was also only available as a convertible initially. The new model, titled the Viper SRT10, was equipped with a 8.3 Liter engine capable of producing over 500 horsepower. The fixed-roof version of this generation was released in late 2005.
Viper ACR
- Video by Motor Trend
A special version of the second generation Viper was produced in 2007, known as the ACR, which stood for "American Club Racer". This high-performance version was fitted with an adjustable rear wing and an underbody. With these components, as well as a slightly reshaped body, the car produced a massive level of downforce at high speed, which helped it achieve a 7:22.1 time at the Nürburgring, the fastest time ever set by a production car at the time.
Third Generation
The third generation Dodge Viper was revealed in 2012, and the first model with a V8 option. It was later announced that Chrysler's SRT division would be producing the Viper instead of Dodge.
The Dodge Viper's Success in Motorsports by Automobilistic
The Dodge Viper raced as the Chrysler Viper in many European races since Dodge wasn't being sold in Europe at the time. The Viper managed to find huge success in motorsports, especially with Team Oreca from France.
Steve's Thoughts on the Dodge Viper
This is one of those iconic cars that got me interested in performance cars in general. Thanks to styling that has aged incredibly well and a range of horsepower ratings from decently high to wildly high, every generation of this car has had a lasting impact on car enthusiasts! I hope to own one of these one day.
- Stephen Brand, June 20, 2023