SRT offers up first 2013 Dodge Viper teaser
04-04-12, 10:21 AM
#32
2013 SRT Viper Makes Debut With 640-Horsepower V-10
This is the moment Viper fans have been waiting two years for: the 2013 SRT Viper has made its official world debut.
There's not much and everything to say about the new Viper. It has cues that evoke thoughts and feelings about the first Viper, with smoother surfaces, similar lines, and some of the bulbous awkwardness, too. But at the same time, it has the size, the low-slung ferocity, and the don't tread on me stance that all Vipers have had, particularly the last generation, which ended in the 2010 model year.
Now, with an insane 640 horsepower rating from its 8.4-liter V-10 engine, the Viper builds on that history with an all-new theme: adding in luxury, comfort, and control. Some of that control is mandated, some of it is voluntary. We just wonder if, all together, it will be as impressive as the last when it's loosed on the track. With custom Pirelli tires measuring 295/355 mm with unique compounds front-to-rear, it's likely to have good mechanical grip.
New features include launch control, four-stage stability control (which can be turned off), cruise control, two-mode adjustable suspension (via dash buttons, on GTS model), plus the "executive performance driver's office"--the new, higher-quality interior. Sabelt seats, the same supplier as Ferrari, give custom seats to the Viper, and a huge range of the interior's colors and materials are customizable to the buyer's preference.
The iconic supercar will be hand built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit starting later in the year.
There's not much and everything to say about the new Viper. It has cues that evoke thoughts and feelings about the first Viper, with smoother surfaces, similar lines, and some of the bulbous awkwardness, too. But at the same time, it has the size, the low-slung ferocity, and the don't tread on me stance that all Vipers have had, particularly the last generation, which ended in the 2010 model year.
Now, with an insane 640 horsepower rating from its 8.4-liter V-10 engine, the Viper builds on that history with an all-new theme: adding in luxury, comfort, and control. Some of that control is mandated, some of it is voluntary. We just wonder if, all together, it will be as impressive as the last when it's loosed on the track. With custom Pirelli tires measuring 295/355 mm with unique compounds front-to-rear, it's likely to have good mechanical grip.
New features include launch control, four-stage stability control (which can be turned off), cruise control, two-mode adjustable suspension (via dash buttons, on GTS model), plus the "executive performance driver's office"--the new, higher-quality interior. Sabelt seats, the same supplier as Ferrari, give custom seats to the Viper, and a huge range of the interior's colors and materials are customizable to the buyer's preference.
The iconic supercar will be hand built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit starting later in the year.
04-04-12, 10:22 AM
#33
2013 SRT Viper Live Photos: 2012 New York Auto Show
The wait is finally over. After a series of not-quite-the-real-thing leaks, including Hot Wheels cars, video game footage, and SRT's own teasers, we have just seen the 2013 SRT Viper in person at the 2012 New York Auto Show. This is it.
There's not much and everything to say about the new Viper. It has cues that evoke thoughts and feelings about the first Viper, with smoother surfaces, similar lines, and some of the bulbous awkwardness, too. But at the same time, it has the size, the low-slung ferocity, and the don't tread on me stance that all Vipers have had, particularly the last generation, which ended in the 2010 model year.
Speaking at the release of the new Viper, SRT head Ralph Gilles said of the development process, "It's like being pregnant for almost 24 months."
Now, with an insane 640 horsepower rating from its 8.4-liter V-10 engine, the Viper builds on that history with an all-new theme: adding in luxury, comfort, and control. Some of that control is mandated, some of it is voluntary. We just wonder if, all together, it will be as impressive as the last when it's loosed on the track. With custom Pirelli tires measuring 295/355 mm with unique compounds front-to-rear, it's likely to have good mechanical grip.
New features include launch control, four-stage stability control (which can be turned off), cruise control, two-mode adjustable suspension (via dash buttons, on GTS model), plus the "executive performance driver's office"--the new, higher-quality interior. Sabelt seats, the same supplier as Ferrari, give custom seats to the Viper, and a huge range of the interior's colors and materials are customizable to the buyer's preference.
The Dodge Dart instrument cluster was used here, but with customizations specific to the Viper.
For many cars, the track is a somewhat meaningless playground. For the Viper, and other super cars of its ilk, the track is the only place where they can really be themselves; many cars in this category can exceed the legal limit on the highway in first gear. Getting anywhere near their limits is simply not feasible on public roads. For the Viper, which has always been a niche car for a niche market, that's especially true.
The 2013 Viper is the lightest Viper ever, coming in 100 pounds lighter than the 2010 model.
We'll have all of the official details and information for you shortly, so stay tuned, and in the meantime, check out all of our ongoing live 2012 New York Auto Show coverage.
There's not much and everything to say about the new Viper. It has cues that evoke thoughts and feelings about the first Viper, with smoother surfaces, similar lines, and some of the bulbous awkwardness, too. But at the same time, it has the size, the low-slung ferocity, and the don't tread on me stance that all Vipers have had, particularly the last generation, which ended in the 2010 model year.
Speaking at the release of the new Viper, SRT head Ralph Gilles said of the development process, "It's like being pregnant for almost 24 months."
Now, with an insane 640 horsepower rating from its 8.4-liter V-10 engine, the Viper builds on that history with an all-new theme: adding in luxury, comfort, and control. Some of that control is mandated, some of it is voluntary. We just wonder if, all together, it will be as impressive as the last when it's loosed on the track. With custom Pirelli tires measuring 295/355 mm with unique compounds front-to-rear, it's likely to have good mechanical grip.
New features include launch control, four-stage stability control (which can be turned off), cruise control, two-mode adjustable suspension (via dash buttons, on GTS model), plus the "executive performance driver's office"--the new, higher-quality interior. Sabelt seats, the same supplier as Ferrari, give custom seats to the Viper, and a huge range of the interior's colors and materials are customizable to the buyer's preference.
The Dodge Dart instrument cluster was used here, but with customizations specific to the Viper.
For many cars, the track is a somewhat meaningless playground. For the Viper, and other super cars of its ilk, the track is the only place where they can really be themselves; many cars in this category can exceed the legal limit on the highway in first gear. Getting anywhere near their limits is simply not feasible on public roads. For the Viper, which has always been a niche car for a niche market, that's especially true.
The 2013 Viper is the lightest Viper ever, coming in 100 pounds lighter than the 2010 model.
We'll have all of the official details and information for you shortly, so stay tuned, and in the meantime, check out all of our ongoing live 2012 New York Auto Show coverage.
04-04-12, 10:23 AM
#34
2013 SRT Viper bites back with 640 HP, returns to racing
Click to view gallery
The wait is finally over. Dodge... excuse us, SRT has officially pulled the wraps off the 2013 Viper, and it's everything we were hoping it could be. Let's discuss numbers: 640 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque from a front/mid-mounted 8.4-liter V10 and the best power-to-weight ratio of any Viper ever built.
In fact, the 2013 SRT Viper's 4.9 pounds per horsepower puts it just behind the Bugatti Veyron and Ferrari F12 and ahead of such performance stalwarts as the Lamborghini Aventador and Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. What's more, this engine has no turbocharger or supercharger, and those 600 lb-ft make this V10 the most torque-rich naturally aspirated production engine in the world.
Two models will be available, the SRT and the GTS. The SRT is meant to "offer a perfect blend of extreme performance and a deliberate preservation of what has become the iconic DNA of the Viper," says Ralph Gilles, President and CEO of the Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports. Buyers looking for a little more technology can opt for the GTS, which adds such niceties as two-mode active suspension and interior creature comforts not normally associated with the Viper.
The 2013 Viper isn't just about power, either. Chassis updates are plentiful and include a beautiful X-brace up front that helps the new platform boast a 50-percent increase in rigidity over the last Viper. To help the driver maintain control, the 2013 Viper is fitted with stability and traction control (both fully defeatable, says Gilles) along with Pirelli P Zero, Z-rated tires that were designed specifically for the Viper, in massive 355 sizes in back and 295 up front. Three different wheels will be available, with five or six spokes in polished, matte black or gloss black finishes, along with a special lightweight set as part of the SRT Track Package.
Inside, the Viper is more luxurious than ever before, with seats from Sabelt (the same supplier used by Ferrari) and a seven-inch LCD screen directly in front of the driver that's configurable with a whole slew of custom operations. Chrysler's stellar 8.4-inch Uconnect Media Center is also included, as is a Harmon Kardon sound system. Oh, and for the first time ever, cruise control is standard.
Though first and foremost a street car, SRT fully intends to establish the 2013 Viper's racing credentials early and often. Viper will return to the American Le Mans Series in 2012, fielding a two-car team driven by Dominik Farnbacher, Marc Goossens, Ryan Hunter-Reay and Kuno Wittmer. And gaming fans aren't left out, either – SRT has worked with the Forza crew to make sure the 2013 SRT Viper is available soon.
There's lots more information in the press release and video below, but we suggest you check out our high-res image galleries first, as this Viper is one beautiful machine.
Press Release
2013 SRT® Viper – The Return of the Snake
Street and Racing Technology (SRT®) brand's flagship performance machine returns with more power and performance, superior craftsmanship, new technologies and creature comforts
Two new models include SRT® Viper and SRT Viper GTS
All-aluminum, mid-engine 8.4-liter V-10 delivers an estimated 640 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports car engine in the world
Chassis enhancements bring 50 percent improvement in torsional stiffness
Triple-digit weight reduction results in Viper best power-to-weight ratio
Standard safety features include electronic multistage stability control, traction control and new 4-channel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
All-new, innovative interior designs set new standards with premium materials, new technologies and superior craftsmanship
All-new carbon-fiber and aluminum skin is sculpted for high-speed stability and a slippery .364 drag coefficient (Cd)
Timeless exterior design incorporates iconic Viper styling cues with a contemporary execution
Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 4, 2012 -
The all-new 2013 SRT® Viper was unveiled to the world today at the New York International Auto Show, marking its highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market.
The fifth generation of the iconic two-seat, American-built supercar has been deliberately evolved to incorporate superior craftsmanship, a host of new technologies and ergonomic improvements while respecting its visceral legacy of outright performance.
"After a gut-wrenching period of uncertainty, the Street and Racing Technology brand team is extremely proud that our hand-built in Detroit, flagship supercar is back and ready to take on the performance car world," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. "Beyond being the flagship for the new SRT brand, the launch of the 2013 Viper proves that we simply would not let the performance icon of the Chrysler Group die. Willed to live on by a very special group of performance enthusiasts inside the company and across Viper Nation, this SRT team under our new leadership was challenged to not just continue the legendary Viper, but to create a world-class supercar that would showcase the very best we have to offer."
Two new models for any performance buyer
For the 2013 model year, two new models of the iconic supercar will be hand built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit – the home for Viper since 1995. Both SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS models offer new interior and exterior designs incorporating premium materials and new exterior surfaces with aerodynamically functional details that are beautifully integrated into the high-tech carbon fiber and aluminum skin. On the inside, designers and engineers strived to rethink all touch points; and upgrade all material appointments and technologies.
"The SRT Viper model is meant to offer a perfect blend of extreme performance and a deliberate preservation of what has become the iconic DNA of the Viper," Gilles added. "We strove to deliver a supercar that continues to bring the driver as close as possible to the machine."
The SRT Viper GTS builds on the DNA of the SRT Viper model with more technologically advanced solutions, like two-mode active suspension, to allow this world-class GTS to find new limits on the track while also opening up its envelope as a more premium and mature evolution of the classic, extreme performance formula. Designed and built with premium features and materials inside and out, the Viper GTS will compete with the best performance vehicles in the world with a wide range of creature comforts, advanced drivetrain and interior technologies.
"We've purposely evolved the iconic soul and raw performance formula that Viper has maintained over the years," Gilles said. "Our returning customers will see the world-class levels of pride, quality and hand craftsmanship built into the 2013 Viper. With two price classes of the SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS, we have offerings for both the traditional core Viper customer and for the new customer who wants the same performance in a package with more technology and premium creature comforts."
Awe-inspiring V-10 powertrain
At the heart and soul of the 2013 SRT Viper is the venerable, hand-assembled 8.4-liter all-aluminum, V-10 overhead-valve engine.
Improvements for 2013 include a new, ultra-high flow and lightweight composite intake manifold, high-strength forged pistons, sodium-filled exhaust valves, new catalysts to reduce back pressure and an aluminum flywheel that reduces reciprocating losses. More than 25 pounds has been shaved from the fully dressed engine.
In fact, the 2013 SRT Viper's 4.9 pounds per horsepower puts it just behind the Bugatti Veyron and Ferrari F12 and ahead of such performance stalwarts as the Lamborghini Aventador and Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. What's more, this engine has no turbocharger or supercharger, and those 600 lb-ft make this V10 the most torque-rich naturally aspirated production engine in the world.
Two models will be available, the SRT and the GTS. The SRT is meant to "offer a perfect blend of extreme performance and a deliberate preservation of what has become the iconic DNA of the Viper," says Ralph Gilles, President and CEO of the Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports. Buyers looking for a little more technology can opt for the GTS, which adds such niceties as two-mode active suspension and interior creature comforts not normally associated with the Viper.
The 2013 Viper isn't just about power, either. Chassis updates are plentiful and include a beautiful X-brace up front that helps the new platform boast a 50-percent increase in rigidity over the last Viper. To help the driver maintain control, the 2013 Viper is fitted with stability and traction control (both fully defeatable, says Gilles) along with Pirelli P Zero, Z-rated tires that were designed specifically for the Viper, in massive 355 sizes in back and 295 up front. Three different wheels will be available, with five or six spokes in polished, matte black or gloss black finishes, along with a special lightweight set as part of the SRT Track Package.
Inside, the Viper is more luxurious than ever before, with seats from Sabelt (the same supplier used by Ferrari) and a seven-inch LCD screen directly in front of the driver that's configurable with a whole slew of custom operations. Chrysler's stellar 8.4-inch Uconnect Media Center is also included, as is a Harmon Kardon sound system. Oh, and for the first time ever, cruise control is standard.
Though first and foremost a street car, SRT fully intends to establish the 2013 Viper's racing credentials early and often. Viper will return to the American Le Mans Series in 2012, fielding a two-car team driven by Dominik Farnbacher, Marc Goossens, Ryan Hunter-Reay and Kuno Wittmer. And gaming fans aren't left out, either – SRT has worked with the Forza crew to make sure the 2013 SRT Viper is available soon.
There's lots more information in the press release and video below, but we suggest you check out our high-res image galleries first, as this Viper is one beautiful machine.
Press Release
2013 SRT® Viper – The Return of the Snake
Street and Racing Technology (SRT®) brand's flagship performance machine returns with more power and performance, superior craftsmanship, new technologies and creature comforts
Two new models include SRT® Viper and SRT Viper GTS
All-aluminum, mid-engine 8.4-liter V-10 delivers an estimated 640 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports car engine in the world
Chassis enhancements bring 50 percent improvement in torsional stiffness
Triple-digit weight reduction results in Viper best power-to-weight ratio
Standard safety features include electronic multistage stability control, traction control and new 4-channel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
All-new, innovative interior designs set new standards with premium materials, new technologies and superior craftsmanship
All-new carbon-fiber and aluminum skin is sculpted for high-speed stability and a slippery .364 drag coefficient (Cd)
Timeless exterior design incorporates iconic Viper styling cues with a contemporary execution
Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 4, 2012 -
The all-new 2013 SRT® Viper was unveiled to the world today at the New York International Auto Show, marking its highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market.
The fifth generation of the iconic two-seat, American-built supercar has been deliberately evolved to incorporate superior craftsmanship, a host of new technologies and ergonomic improvements while respecting its visceral legacy of outright performance.
"After a gut-wrenching period of uncertainty, the Street and Racing Technology brand team is extremely proud that our hand-built in Detroit, flagship supercar is back and ready to take on the performance car world," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. "Beyond being the flagship for the new SRT brand, the launch of the 2013 Viper proves that we simply would not let the performance icon of the Chrysler Group die. Willed to live on by a very special group of performance enthusiasts inside the company and across Viper Nation, this SRT team under our new leadership was challenged to not just continue the legendary Viper, but to create a world-class supercar that would showcase the very best we have to offer."
Two new models for any performance buyer
For the 2013 model year, two new models of the iconic supercar will be hand built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit – the home for Viper since 1995. Both SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS models offer new interior and exterior designs incorporating premium materials and new exterior surfaces with aerodynamically functional details that are beautifully integrated into the high-tech carbon fiber and aluminum skin. On the inside, designers and engineers strived to rethink all touch points; and upgrade all material appointments and technologies.
"The SRT Viper model is meant to offer a perfect blend of extreme performance and a deliberate preservation of what has become the iconic DNA of the Viper," Gilles added. "We strove to deliver a supercar that continues to bring the driver as close as possible to the machine."
The SRT Viper GTS builds on the DNA of the SRT Viper model with more technologically advanced solutions, like two-mode active suspension, to allow this world-class GTS to find new limits on the track while also opening up its envelope as a more premium and mature evolution of the classic, extreme performance formula. Designed and built with premium features and materials inside and out, the Viper GTS will compete with the best performance vehicles in the world with a wide range of creature comforts, advanced drivetrain and interior technologies.
"We've purposely evolved the iconic soul and raw performance formula that Viper has maintained over the years," Gilles said. "Our returning customers will see the world-class levels of pride, quality and hand craftsmanship built into the 2013 Viper. With two price classes of the SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS, we have offerings for both the traditional core Viper customer and for the new customer who wants the same performance in a package with more technology and premium creature comforts."
Awe-inspiring V-10 powertrain
At the heart and soul of the 2013 SRT Viper is the venerable, hand-assembled 8.4-liter all-aluminum, V-10 overhead-valve engine.
Improvements for 2013 include a new, ultra-high flow and lightweight composite intake manifold, high-strength forged pistons, sodium-filled exhaust valves, new catalysts to reduce back pressure and an aluminum flywheel that reduces reciprocating losses. More than 25 pounds has been shaved from the fully dressed engine.
04-04-12, 10:49 AM
#36
Dysfunctional Veteran
04-04-12, 10:50 AM
#37
04-04-12, 10:53 AM
#38
In fact, the 2013 SRT Viper's 4.9 pounds per horsepower puts it just behind the Bugatti Veyron and Ferrari F12 and ahead of such performance stalwarts as the Lamborghini Aventador and Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. What's more, this engine has no turbocharger or supercharger, and those 600 lb-ft make this V10 the most torque-rich naturally aspirated production engine in the world.
04-04-12, 11:20 AM
#39
Speaks French in Russian
Mehhhh. Its like a bad American and Italian mash-up. They Jersey Shore'd the Viper!
Im sure the performance and lunacy of the Viper is retained and will be a bargain compared to other high performance vehicles.
Im sure the performance and lunacy of the Viper is retained and will be a bargain compared to other high performance vehicles.
04-04-12, 11:50 AM
#42
Lead Lap
The GTSR looks badass. I am a little disappointed in having "only" 640hp, I was guessing more like 660hp but I'm sure it is going to perform amazingly on a track. The interior looks incredible (at least for a Viper). Not the best looking car but definitely not the worst. As long as it performs it should sell. Heck look at the GTR, unless you know cars you wouldn't look twice at one but it is one heck of a performer. At least this will turn heads good or bad and won't blend in traffic. Base model should be similar to a GTR.
04-04-12, 12:29 PM
#43
The GTSR looks badass. I am a little disappointed in having "only" 640hp, I was guessing more like 660hp but I'm sure it is going to perform amazingly on a track. The interior looks incredible (at least for a Viper). Not the best looking car but definitely not the worst. As long as it performs it should sell. Heck look at the GTR, unless you know cars you wouldn't look twice at one but it is one heck of a performer. At least this will turn heads good or bad and won't blend in traffic. Base model should be similar to a GTR.
