Autoblog

Is the next Dodge Viper really just a reskinned Alfa 8C?

Noah Joseph — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 19:32:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Dodge, Alfa Romeo, Rumormill

Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione - Click above for high-res image gallery

Snakes are known to regularly shed their skin to reveal a shimmering new coat underneath. Doing it the other way around would be a unique trick, but if the latest reports are to be believed, that might be what we're looking at.

Last week at a dealers' conference, Fiat/Chrysler chief Sergio Marchionne reportedly pulled the covers off a new-generation Dodge Viper. With the current model having already been axed, our interest was, to say the least, piqued by this development. New reports emanating from the exclusive preview have given us cause for a little more consternation, however.

According to AutoWeek, the new Viper - expected to arrive sometime late next year as a 2012 model - looked eerily like an Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione with a more Dodge-like front end. That would be a shame, since the Alfa's styling is its biggest asset; its chassis and performance dynamics, less so. Giving the 8C - based, as it is, on age-old Maserati architecture - a new shell and calling it a Viper strikes us as all kinds of wrong. Then again, like a great many rumors in the autosphere, this could all be mere conjecture.

Gallery: Quick Spin: 2009 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

[Source: AutoWeek]

Is the next Dodge Viper really just a reskinned Alfa 8C? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 Sep 2010 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Last Dodge Viper gets custom treatment

Dan Roth — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:32:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Etc., Dodge

Ralph Gilles and D'Ann Rauh with the final Dodge Viper - Click above for high-res gallery

The 2010 Dodge Viper is many things, awesome among them. So when you're buying something truly awesome, what do you do? Paint it earth tones, of course. Brown cars are the zenith of cool, and the very last Viper (for now) rolled out of the Conner Avenue plant wearing bronzed gold House of Kolor paint with copper-hued stripes. Airbrushed on those stripes by SRT's Bob Soroka are pictograms of race tracks that bear special significance for the Viper.

The last of the current-generation Vipers turned out to be a coupe, factory customized for owner D'Ann Rauh. D'Ann and her husband Wayne Rauh own the largest personal stash of Vipers, totaling more than 40 cars. Not only does Rauh's car wear a stunning color palette, the interior has custom leatherwork by Tony Spampinito, a veteran of the Rauh's past Viper projects. Dark graphite finished forged aluminum wheels tuck under the flashy bodywork, and seeing the Viper wearing the hue makes one wonder why there's never been a shade of umber offered on the Viper's flanks before. Maybe next time, whenever that is. Full details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Final Dodge Viper

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Last Dodge Viper gets custom treatment

Last Dodge Viper gets custom treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Giving birth to the Dodge Viper ACR-X

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 17:55:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Dodge, Racing

Making the Dodge Viper ACR-X - Click above to view the video after the jump

Chrysler's put out a new video showing how it transforms a "run-of-the-mill" Dodge Viper ACR into the track-only ACR-X model. The work is handled at the same facility in Detroit that creates the Viper Competition Coupe race cars, but the process is quite a bit different. The Competition Coupe is built from the ground up at the preparation shop while the ACR-X is assembled at the Conner Ave. assembly plant and then retrofitted with race gear. This process allows the ACR-X to be built at about half the cost of the Competition Coupe.

The ACR-X is fitted with a host of kit, including a roll-cage, brake cooling ducts, competition fuel cell, extra dive planes, fire suppression system and bigger brakes. The ACR-X gets the same racing seat used in the Competition Coupe, available in two sizes to fit the driver. Get all the details in the video after the jump.

Gallery: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Video: Giving birth to the Dodge Viper ACR-X

Video: Giving birth to the Dodge Viper ACR-X originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Ralph Gilles talks Dodge Viper, considering track-only model

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 09:58:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Dodge

Click above to view the video after the jump

At a recent event at Gingerman Raceway in western Michigan, Dodge brand CEO Ralph Gilles took some time to discuss the Viper as it heads off into retirement in its current form. Unfortunately, for those hoping for clues to the future of the V10 sports car, Gilles said almost nothing of consequence. He did acknowledge that demand for the 2010s has been surprisingly robust, particularly the limited edition ACR-X. As a result, Dodge is considering building an additional batch of the track-only models. Gilles has high hopes for the Viper spec racing series that begins next month, since this will be one of the first chances for Vipers to be running unrestricted in competition.

Many of the 2010 models are being special-ordered by customers with unique finishes and interiors, and according to Gilles, all of this data is being factored into decisions about the future of the brand. He gives no other hints about the car or when (if ever) it might appear. Check out everything Gilles has to say after the jump.

Gallery: Dodge Viper ACR-X Begins Production

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Video: Ralph Gilles talks Dodge Viper, considering track-only model

Video: Ralph Gilles talks Dodge Viper, considering track-only model originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jun 2010 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dodge slithers out new 2010 Viper Final Edition models

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 17:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Chrysler, Dodge, Design/Style

2010 Dodge Viper Final Edition Roadster, ACR and Coupe - Click above for high-res image gallery

The current Dodge Viper that we've all come to know and love is heading to that faraway automotive graveyard in the sky. Fret not - we have it on good authority that all supercars go to heaven. To commemorate the occasion, Chrysler has announced that it will build a limited production run of 50 Viper SRT10 Final Edition models.

Dodge will build 20 Final Edition Coupes, 18 Roadsters and just 12 ACRs, each dipped in a bath of Graphite Clear Coat with a black center stripe that's outlined in red. Coupes and ACRs will also get a black windshield surround that the Roadster does without. Capping off the exterior are anthracite six-spoke wheels for the Coupe and Roadster and black Sidewinder wheels for the ACR.

Inside, each car will get side sill badges along with red accent stitching on the black surfaces, plus red painted halo surrounds on the gauge cluster and bright stainless steel screws in center stack bezel. A numbered plaque will be featured on the shifter bezel and the updates will be finished off with Viper Final Edition floor mats.

The well-known V10 powerplant goes unchanged, but with 600 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque it's not as if the Viper was ever lacking for power. Pricing is unknown, but Dodge says the cars will be available starting this summer. Hit the jump for the official press release.

Gallery: 2010 Dodge Viper Final Edition

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Dodge slithers out new 2010 Viper Final Edition models

Dodge slithers out new 2010 Viper Final Edition models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dodge Viper ACR-X enters production [w/video]

Drew Phillips — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 09:58:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Plants/Manufacturing, Videos, Dodge, Racing

2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Have $110,000 burning a hole in your pocket and want to go racing? Consider the 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X. Excluding the dedicated GTS/R racecar of the late '90s, the ACR-X is the most potent Viper built by Chrysler. The special edition model comes with 640 horsepower and can lap Laguna Seca three seconds faster than the shockingly quick Viper ACR that owns the track record for a production car.

If that sounds like your cup of tea, you won't have to wait long to get one. Chrysler has just announced that production of the ACR-X has already started at its Conner Avenue Assembly Plant and provided a few photos and video of the cars going down the assembly line.

Dodge Motorsports and Mopar have even provided a way to put the cars to good use. The Dodge Viper Cup will run at five racetracks starting this summer, and a contingency program will give owners a chance to earn back some of the purchase price of the car. In total more than $200,000 will be paid out, including $25,000 to the 2010 season champion. Follow the jump the press release from Chrysler and a short video of the ACR-X at the assembly plant.

Gallery: Dodge Viper ACR-X Begins Production

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Dodge Viper ACR-X enters production [w/video]

Dodge Viper ACR-X enters production [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2009: Dodge Viper enters final year with tweaks and first two limited-edition models

Michael Harley — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:48:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Dodge

2010 Dodge Viper ACR 1:33 Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2010 model year marks the last run of the 600-hp Dodge Viper. To keep performance (and consumer interest) high for the next 12 months, the automaker is adding new colors, enhancing performance and releasing several limited-edition models.

Standard Viper SRT10 models receive two new exterior colors: Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat. A new shorter fifth gear ratio (changing from .74 to .80) improves high speed acceleration (the 0-200 mph run drops by 14 seconds). The track-bred ACR models get a new short-throw shifter, and new aerodynamic tweaks to the rear wing lower drag while improving downforce (top speed bumps up to 184 mph on the ACR model).

As of today, the automaker has announced the first two special variants of the Viper, and they promise more will come. The Dodge Viper ACR 1:33 Edition, paying tribute to the record-setting run at Laguna Seca, is identified by its unique two-tone Black Clear Coat/Red Clear Coat exterior color (the opposite of the original Viper ACR color). Other cosmetic enhancements include piano black console bezels with red gauge highlights and red stitching on the seats. The Vooodoo-edition Viper ACR gets an all Black Clear Coat exterior with a Graphite stripe outlined in red. Talk about exclusivity - only 10 cars will be produced with the unique striping on both the exterior and steering wheel. You can check out both limited edition models in our live gallery below and read Dodge's press release after the jump.

Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10

Gallery: 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10

[Source: Dodge]

Continue reading LA 2009: Dodge Viper enters final year with tweaks and first two limited-edition models

LA 2009: Dodge Viper enters final year with tweaks and first two limited-edition models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR makes the rounds at Laguna Seca, sets track record

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:26:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Dodge

2010 Dodge Viper ACR - Click above to watch the video

The Dodge Viper is many things to many people. An object of unparalleled lust to some, a big-mouthed, truck-engined Corvette ripoff to others. And an ankle burner to still others. But no one ever thought of Dodge's V10 quarter-mile thug as a serious track car. Until the Viper ACR showed up.

Lighter (especially in Hardcore Package guise) and producing ten times as much downforce as the "regular" SRT10 Viper, the ACR model set off some pretty big waves when the big-winged snake debuted (especially in the Nurburgring record community), even though most of the rippling came from the street-legal slicks. But never mind all that, the new 2010 Dodge Viper ACR is here, and it's even better than the 2009 version.

Why? Well, it's faster (top speed is now 202 mph) and quicker (it can reach said top speed a whole 14 seconds sooner than the 2009 model). How? Gearing, specifically 5th gear, which has been revised from 0.741 to 0.796. Also, the end caps on the giant wing have been revised, resulting in that higher top end. Some new colors, too. We have tons of videos of it rumbling/blasting around Laguna Seca for your perusal, after the jump. Hat tip to Ryan!

UPDATE: Looks like Dodge, the Viper ACR and driver Chris Winkler just broke the Laguna Seca single-lap record with a time of 1:33.944. Those of you with longish memories will remember that a Devon GTX (powered by a Viper motor) recently set the (now) old record at Laguna -- 1.35.075. In other words, the new Viper ACR just beat the previous record by more than a second. Impressive. And yet another video, after the jump.

UPDATE 2: Gallery of images from the 2010 Dodge Viper ACR's day at the track added.

UPDATE 3: Chrysler just twittered: "To honor Viper's record-breaking lap at Laguna Seca, Dodge will rollout a Laguna Seca Special Edition Viper." Now that's planning product on your feet!

Gallery: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR at Laguna Seca

[Source: Red Letter Dodge]

Continue reading VIDEO: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR makes the rounds at Laguna Seca, sets track record

VIDEO: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR makes the rounds at Laguna Seca, sets track record originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BREAKING: Dodge to end Viper production in July 2010, new car in 2012

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:49:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Chrysler, Dodge

2009 Dodge Viper ACR - Click above for high-res image gallery

At the Chrysler business plan meeting this morning, Ralph Gilles, CEO of the Dodge car brand, dropped big news on the Viper. After going back and forth for the past 18 months on what to do with Viper, Chrysler has decided that production of the current Viper will end in July 2010. Before that happens, 500 final cars will be built that, according to Gilles, will be the most special Vipers ever. Gilles explained that the company wanted to preserve the value of existing Vipers by not continuing the current generation indefinitely. He didn't give any details on what would be special with the final 500 cars.

However, Viper fans need not mourn yet. Gilles revealed that an all new car is being developed with a launch targeted in 2012! Even better the Viper will be getting some help from Chrysler's new Italian colleagues... and lets not forget about a certain Fiat outpost that uses a yellow-and-black Prancing Horse for its logo that's based in Maranello. Let's just hope they keep the Viper's elemental nature in the new generation.

Gallery: First Drive: 2008 Dodge Viper ACR

BREAKING: Dodge to end Viper production in July 2010, new car in 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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