The Dodge division of the Chrysler LLC, a U.S. Automobile manufacturer, started the production of the Dodge Viper in 1992. Inspired from the AC Cobra, the then status symbol car, the Dodge Viper was launched with a high performance and better styling engine; and a more muscular and aggressive styling body.
First Generation
The Viper RT/10 is the first model of its kind was released in 1991. The two door roadster had a powerful engine that weighed 711 lbs and produced 400bhp. Based on the design of Chrysler LA engine, modified and refurbished by the Lamborghini, also a production of the Chrysler Corporation, 8.0L, 400bhp and 465 lb ft enhanced engine was fitted into this compact car with a sporty look. Attaining a maximum speed of more than 180 mph, the performance of this elite car could very well complete a quarter mile in just 12.6 seconds. The Spartan car of its own kind, the first generation Dodge Viper produced an acceleration of 0 – 60 mph in only 4.6 seconds and reached 100 mph in 9.2 seconds. This was something unachievable by any other car during those times.
Second Generation
Dodge Viper GTS, a coupe model of the initial release was later released in 1996. Much upgraded features were included in this model, few of which are the better enhanced engine, redesigned suspension and stiffer chassis. This car came up with a higher power and lesser weight of the body. The top speed was increased by 11mph. This car was then rated as the top car even when compared with the likes of the Ferrari 550, Chevrolet Corvette, Porsche 911 and also Honda NSX. Almost 10,000 Vipers of the second generation model were sold in less than six years.
Third Generation
The second generation car underwent a major redesign bringing up the Viper SRT 10 in 2003. The style was completely changed, the body has an altogether new look and the initial release came as a convertible. Viper SRT 10 Coupe was later launched based on the response of the convertible. Upgraded and powerful 8.3L V10 engine was included in this coupe. The engines that released along with this car are of 510 hp and 535 lb ft that offered high performance.
Fourth Generation
600 bhp at 6000 rpm engine was launched with the fourth generation of the Viper SRT 10, which was released in 2008. This is the currently available car in the market today. Major internal redesigns were made in this fourth generation car though the outer looks had slight changes in the body angling and styling. Continental AG developed the electronic engine controller which could monitor the crankshaft and the cylinder position that processes more power than its previous version engine. This cylinder position is monitored by the new engine up to 6 times on each firing.This newly designed enhanced engine produced an acceleration of 0 – 60 mph in only 3.5 seconds and reached 100 mph in 7.6 seconds, attaining a top speed of 202 mph. Chrysler could redefine the Dodge Viper with the release of this Viper SRT 10 in the fourth generation of its model. It was thoroughly appreciated and well received in the global auto market.