Autoblog

2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X ready to fill your track-rat, spec-racing needs [w/ VIDEO]

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:55:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Dodge

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

The Dodge Viper has never been a particularly brilliant road car. But get it out to the track, and the snake's reason for being becomes abundantly clear. To emphasize its on-track prowess, introduce a new Viper spec series and provide a fitting send-off to the current generation coupe, Dodge and its SRT group is building a turn-key racer in the form of the 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X.

Priced at a cool $110,000, the ACR-X retains its 8.4-liter V10, but gains a set of racing headers and a low-restriction exhaust to increase output to 640 horsepower -- an additional 40 ponies over the standard model.

The suspension has been tuned for track duty, the weight has been cut by 160 pounds and a new set of aerodynamic enhancements improve downforce, while a roll cage, fuel cell and race seat get it ready to compete in the SCCA and NASA Viper Racing League. Production begins this spring, with the Dodge Viper Spec series kicking off in July of 2010. Make the jump for the press release and a video of the ACR-X's development.

Gallery: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X

Continue reading 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X ready to fill your track-rat, spec-racing needs [w/ VIDEO]

2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X ready to fill your track-rat, spec-racing needs [w/ VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:55:00 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: Inside the cockpit of the Viper ACR's record lap at Laguna Seca

Noah Joseph — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:44:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Videos, Dodge

Dodge Viper ACR laps Laguna Seca - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Pushing a performance monster like the Viper ACR around a race track at ten tenths takes some pretty massive cojones. But few tracks require the testicular fortitude of Laguna Seca.

The iconic circuit in Northern California is packed full of decreasing radius corners, off-camber turns, and the indomitable corkscrew. Fortunately, Dodge test driver Chris Winkler was up to the task, and pushed the ACR around dry lagoon to a record-breaking lap time of 1:33.944, edging out its cousin the Devon GTX in the process to claim the fastest road-car lap time around the track.

Now we've got footage that takes us inside the cockpit for the record run, which may seem like old hat to the video game crowd, until you realize this was happening in real life. Follow the jump to check it out.

[Source: Chrysler via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Inside the cockpit of the Viper ACR's record lap at Laguna Seca

VIDEO: Inside the cockpit of the Viper ACR's record lap at Laguna Seca originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:44:00 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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Turn the Dodge Viper logo upside down and guess who appears...

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:38:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Etc., Dodge, Humor

Stonehenge, Rosebud, The Wizard of Oz and Pink Floyd - all have confounded us with their hidden meanings. And to that list we now add the logo for the Dodge Viper. Somehow it has eluded us for years that, when turned upside down, the Viper logo turns into what appears to be... Daffy Duck. Or, as some other folks have mentioned, perhaps it's Duck Dodgers, or Darkwing Duck. Someone else thought it was "a gator with a volcano in the background," but we have no idea how that happened...

Regardless of which name that foul goes by, it's quite a revelation to make this late into the Viper game. If there were any meaning intended from the inversion, we'd expect it to be a swan, not a duck. But what does it all mean? History might know. For now, it's just another one of those quirks that is the Dodge Viper, and yet another reason we'll miss it when it departs in 2011. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: Bits & Pieces via Boing Boing | Image: Micihi1308 via Wikimedia Commons]

Continue reading Turn the Dodge Viper logo upside down and guess who appears...

Turn the Dodge Viper logo upside down and guess who appears... originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:38:00 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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Viper app allows remote start of your car with iPhone

John Neff — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:57:00 EST

Filed under: Safety, Technology

Click above to watch videos after the jump

As the iPhone continues to introduce apps both silly and indispensable, it should come as no surprise that there's now an app for starting your car remotely. Introduced by car alarm company Viper, the SmartStart app comes in two flavors: a $299 package if you already have a compatible Viper alarm system or a $499 deal for a stand alone unit that comes with everything you need to start operating your car with Apple's Jesus phone. In addition to remote start, the SmartStart app can also lock and unlock your car, open the trunk and sound your panic alarm.

Previously we've seen the ZipCar app for the iPhone tout lock/unlocking capabilities, but this is the first time an app has enabled your iPhone to actually turn on a car. What's next? Well, we're going to start holding our breath for an app that's lets us drive our cars using the iPhone, just like James Bond did with his 7 Series in Tomorrow Never Dies. Big breath, big breath...

Follow the jump for a video of how the system works and what it can do.

[Source: Viper, Engadget]

Continue reading Viper app allows remote start of your car with iPhone

Viper app allows remote start of your car with iPhone originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Millyard Viper V10 - One more way to kill yourself quick stick a honkin' engine on two wheels

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:59:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Dodge, Motorcycle, Specialty

Millyard Viper V10 - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Proving that there's more than one way to shoehorn a massive 8.0-liter Viper V10 engine into a motorcycle is a certain Allen Millyard from the United Kingdom. We sorta prefer the industrial brute force look of the original Dodge Tomahawk with its unconventional suspension systems and leaning four-wheeled design, but Millyard's creation is unarguably truer to the established motorcycle ethos - two wheels, a powerful engine and not much else.

Predictably, Millyard's creation features one of the longest motorcycle wheelbases in recent memory, though there's little way to avoid that with ten giant cylinders hung between the two contact patches. It could be argued that you don't really need any gimmicks when packing 500 raging horses into such a light machine, and that's probably true. Still, we're thinking the next logical step for this insane motorcycle should include a couple of turbochargers and a quick shot of nitrous... and maybe a sidecar. Click past the break for a couple of videos (*NOTE: Second vid is sans audio).

[Source: Motorcycle News]

Continue reading VIDEO: Millyard Viper V10 - One more way to ~~kill yourself quick~~ stick a honkin' engine on two wheels

VIDEO: Millyard Viper V10 - One more way to ~~kill yourself quick~~ stick a honkin' engine on two wheels originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dodge Viper ACR wing stronger than your average spoiler

Michael Harley — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:28:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Technology, Dodge, Design/Style

The elephantine rear airfoil bolted to the rear deck of the Dodge Viper ACR is not only highly functional, but it gets credit as being the first mass-produced carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) wing on a production car. Rear wings on high performance vehicles are designed to counter lift. Without aerodynamic aids, most vehicles become less stable and have reduced grip as velocities increase (worst case, the vehicle actually flies as did the Mercedes CLR at Le Mans in 1999).

Chrysler's SRT Performance Group was tasked with building a faster variant of the Dodge Viper with the ACR, yet cutting weight at the same time. The team did extensive studies of wing profiles before settling on a 72-inch wide wing manufactured out of CFRP. While most wings have a structural core or ribbing, the ACR's hollow wing is comprised of just four layers of epoxy/carbon fiber weave with an outer UV-resistant clearcoat.

The wing is amazingly strong (as evidenced by the picture at right), yet it weighs just 7.5 lbs, 50 to 80 percent less than an aluminum or thermoplastic counterpart. Working in conjunction with a variable-geometry front splitter and dive planes, the oversized rear wing helps the Viper ACR achieve its targeted 1,000 lbs of downforce at 150 mph. That's enough to help Dodge's supercar sustain a cornering load of 1.5 Gs at speed - superior to many GT racing cars.

[Source: Composites World]

Dodge Viper ACR wing stronger than your average spoiler originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Devon GTX chasing the production car 'Ring record

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Performance

Why it was just last week that we talked about the Devon GTX "setting" the one lap "record" at Laguna Seca. We actually got on the horn and called Devon, ~~begging~~ asking for a detail or two about the GTX's upcoming reveal at Pebble Beach in just four short days (August 15). All we could get out of 'em is that yes, the GTX has a V10 under its hood -- and that was all they'd say. "Everything will be revealed" come Pebble Beach. Oh yeah?

Spy photographers working for Autocar caught some nice shots of the GTX at -- you guessed it -- the Nurburgring. According to the Brit pub, Devon is going after the production Nurburgring time (6:55) currently held by the Radical SR8 (which hardly qualifies as a "production car," but whatevs). Our British friends also speculate that the GTX has an all carbon fiber body to keep its weight low, low, low. Also: Justin Bell, son of five-time Le Mans winner Derek Bell, was at the wheel for the 'Ring attempt. We believe that last part 100% as Devon told us Justin was the driver for the Laguna Seca "record."

Obvioulsy, it's not August 15 yet but it's safe to assume a big part of the GTX's launch is going to be how it did on the Nurburgring. As Tom Leykis says, "Do you care?" Either way, that's marketing for you.

One more little point: As we learned last week, the GTX's one lap Laguna Seca time was one tenth of a second faster than the Dodge Viper ACR. Laguna Seca is two miles long, the Nordschleife section of the Nurburgring is fourteen miles long. Taking all the other variables off the table and the GTX could run the 'Ring about half a second quicker than the Viper ACR. To refresh your memory banks, the Viper ACR did the deed in 7:22, and the GTX is chasing 6:55.

[Source: Autocar]

Spy Shots: Devon GTX chasing the production car 'Ring record originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Next-Gen Dodge Viper could get Ferrari-derived V10

Noah Joseph — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:25:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Dodge, Maserati, Ferrari

Dodge Viper SRT-10 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Way back in 1987, Chrysler bought up a troubled Lamborghini, and within two years put it to work developing a V10 engine program that would eventually give birth to both the Dodge Viper and the Lamborghini Gallardo - two of the first ten-cylinder engines on the modern market. Two decades later, the tables have turned: instead of buying up struggling Italian automakers, it's Chrysler that's troubled and the Italians are coming to the rescue. And now reports suggest that the replacement for the Viper's V10 could be derived from Ferrari's next-generation engine program.

Chrysler's original plan was to sell of the Viper business, but since no serious offers came through, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne is reportedly keen on taking advantage of the sportscar's standing as the company's halo vehicle. But rather than have Chrysler shoulder the entire burden of developing the next-generation Viper, the engine program could be derived from the same modular powerplant that will propel upcoming Ferraris and Maseratis.

Ferrari has essentially had four engine designs in its history: the Colombo design was in use from the company's beginnings all the way through the '90s. The Lampredi engine was used on a handful of vehicles in the 50's before being phased out. The Dino engine spawned V6, V8 and V12 versions and was in use until just a few years ago, while the current Ferrari/Maserati engine powers everything in the both companies' current ranges as well as the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. Its 90-degree replacement will likewise offer variable configurations: a flat-plane crank V8 for Ferrari, a cross-plane crank for Maserati and a pushrod V10 for the Viper.

[Source: Car and Driver]

REPORT: Next-Gen Dodge Viper could get Ferrari-derived V10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Devon GTX sets one-lap "record" at Laguna Seca

Jonny Lieberman — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 10:28:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Etc., Misc. Auto Shows

Devon GTX - Click above for high-res image gallery

The last time I brought up the fallacy of purchasing a car (or even being a fan one one) based off a "lap record," I was called a pimp and much worse. Luckily, my skin is rhino-thick - so here's me doing it again. But first, let's talk about the car claiming to be the new King of the Corkscrew, the Devon GTX. Well, we know very little. It's been speculated that the GTX is powered by Viper, meaning there's an 8.4-liter V10 beating under its presumably carbon fiber skin. Word overheard on the street is that the serpent heart has been reworked to spit out 650 horsepower, 50 more venomous ponies than stock. And that's all anyone knows. Maybe.

What we do know is that Southern California-based industrial design haus Devon Motorworks is claiming that its new car - the "next American Supercar" - just set a "production car" one-lap record around the fabled Lagauna Seca race track. Time? 1:35.075. Having driven Laguna Seca once or twice my own self - came very close to setting the all time slowest lap, thank you - that's quite a fast time. But... to quote (once more) Jack Baruth, "Lap times set on different days, under different conditions, simply aren't comparable. It's that simple. Some days are hot, some days are cool, some days there's rubber on the track, some days there's oil. The same competent driver, in the same car, might have a fifteen-second variation from one 'Ring session to the next."

Obviously, the Nurburgring is much longer than Laguna Seca - 14 miles versus two. Even still, if you divide Jack's fifteen-second variation by seven you get a bit more than two seconds, i.e. a lifetime on a racetrack. Cut that time differential in half and you're still talking over a second per lap, just based on environmental factors. For comparison's sake, a 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR lapped Laguna in 1.35.117. Is the more powerful Devon GTX only one tenth of a second quicker than the big Dodge around a two-mile track? Couldn't the wind account for that much time? Or a few birds flapping their wings? A larger point (also brought up by Jack) is that this particular lap attempt was closed to the public and (presumably) conducted by Devon. Without calling the results meaningless, we would like to point out that the brand new Autoblog Track-a-Tack-a-Kuh GTR3X just lapped Laguna in 1:35:065. What, you won't take our word for it?

Regardless of your feelings (or ours) regarding the Devon GTX, it will be making its debut next weekend at Pebble Beach. Cars should be available for public consumption come quarter one of 2010. Full press release after the jump.

Gallery: Devon Motor Works GTX renderings

[Source: Devon Motorworks]

Continue reading Devon GTX sets one-lap "record" at Laguna Seca

Devon GTX sets one-lap "record" at Laguna Seca originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: 2010 Nissan GT-R makes supercar friends

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:28:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Japan, Videos, Nissan

Supercar parade - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

It's Godzillapalooza time boys and girls! More precisely, the day before the 2010 Nissan GT-R had to go back, my buddy Steve asked if I could give him a ride in the Skyline. Well, he'd actually been calling since two weeks before the car showed up, but anyhow, Steve is a filmmaker and he showed up camera in hand. Our plan, quite honestly, was just a quick blast across some empty freeways and nothing more. But then we saw the exit for Angeles Crest Highway and even though it was amateur day (Sundays = dozens of motorcycles riding off sheer cliffs in front of cops) we figured Steve should see Godzilla eat a canyon. Plus, after you get a few miles up you can turn left off Angeles Crest onto Angeles Highway, a much less congested (and some would argue better) road.

What happened next is one of the many reasons I'm never leaving Southern California. Stuck behind a pickup truck is a veritable supercar parade. From front to back: Ferrari F355 Spyder, Ferrari F430 Spyder, ~~Mothra~~ BMW M6, Dodge Viper SRT10, Ferrari F430 Spyder. I can't say for certain, but I think Godzilla was smiling. Eventually the truck pulled over and it was on. Well, OK, we got stuck behind the slow Ferrari, but it was still quite fun.

We all stopped for lunch where we asked the drivers if the matching Ferrari shirts add 5 horsepower. Then we hopped back in the cars, but not before I announced that the Nissan would be running mid-pack. The Viper driver yelled, "Try to keep up!" Little did he know I was wearing my high performance flip-flops. Thanks to Steve for filming and cutting the video: follow the jump to watch it.

Continue reading VIDEO: 2010 Nissan GT-R makes supercar friends

VIDEO: 2010 Nissan GT-R makes supercar friends originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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You Had Your Chance: Chrysler says Viper program is no longer for sale

Drew Phillips — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 17:05:00 EST

Filed under: Supercars, Dodge

2008 Dodge Viper ACR - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The future of the Dodge Viper has been in question since the summer of 2008, when it was reported Chrysler was considering selling the rights to their halo sports car instead of killing it all together. Initially, there seemed to be plenty of interested parties, including Roush and Saleen, but the dwindling economy led to just one lowball offer from Michigan-based Devon Motor Works. Even after the Viper's production facility re-opened last month, it was still assumed that the 600 horsepower sports car would up for grabs. Not anymore.

Today, Chrysler announced that the Viper program is no longer for sale and that it will be continued to be produced past the end of the year at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant. There was no mention as to why the decision was made or what will happen beyond 2010, but for now, the Viper is safe. The official press release doesn't offer much information, but you check it out after the jump, along with a video from Chrysler discussing the decision and giving brief history of the Viper.

Gallery: First Drive: 2008 Dodge Viper ACR

Continue reading You Had Your Chance: Chrysler says Viper program is no longer for sale

You Had Your Chance: Chrysler says Viper program is no longer for sale originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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eBay Find of the Day: The 'Nunrunner' V10-powered eight-door Dodge Dart Limowagon [w/VIDEO]

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Wagon, Auctions, Etc., Videos, Dodge, Specialty

1962 Dodge Dart limo 'Nunrunner' - Click above for high-res image gallery

And now for something completely different. We can't recall ever seeing another vehicle quite like this 1962 Dodge Dart, which was converted into a limo wagon that was supposedly intended for the Vatican and later sold to a Catholic Church in Kentucky - and that's probably for the best.

As scary as the beast may be to look at, the team from Wicked Rides Inc. reports that it's actually a trouble-free driver thanks to the modern V10 engine yanked from a Dodge Ram and T56 six-speed manual transmission from a Viper it was blessed with when converted into The Nunrunner - reliable enough, in fact, to have taken part in the last Hot Rod Power Tour with nary a breakdown.

Underneath the rusty outer shell sits a chassis that's been fortified with the K-frame and suspension bits from a 2004 Corvette Z06, though we doubt it handles anything like the pilfered sportscar from which those bits came. To fully take in all that the Nunrunner has to offer, we suggest you amble through our photo gallery below and click past the break for a couple of drag racing videos where the eight-door contraption lines up against a Shelby Cobra (real or knockoff, we're not sure) for a trip down the 'ole 1320.

Interested in making this unique vehicle your own? Click here for the actual eBay auction. Current bid: $1,075 (reserve not yet met). Thanks for the tip, Richard!

Gallery: 1962 Dodge Dart limo 'Nunrunner'

[Source: eBay]

Continue reading eBay Find of the Day: The 'Nunrunner' V10-powered eight-door Dodge Dart Limowagon [w/VIDEO]

eBay Find of the Day: The 'Nunrunner' V10-powered eight-door Dodge Dart Limowagon [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dodge Viper assembly plant first Chrysler facility to restart after bankruptcy?

Chris Shunk — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 09:58:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Plants/Manufacturing, Supercars, Dodge

Dodge Viper - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The new Chrysler Group, LLC exited from bankruptcy last week, yet its factories have remained closed. CNN Money reports that this streak of inactivity will end when the 115 workers that assemble the Dodge Viper return to business at the Conner Avenue plant in Detroit. The start-up of Chrysler's smallest plant ends seven weeks of shuttered facilities.

Despite Fiat taking a stake in the Viper's parent company, Chrysler, the high-horsepower snake is likely still up for sale. In the meantime, Chrysler could likely use the added revenue that comes with selling 600 horsepower, $90,000 supercars. That the facility will soon be up and running is a good thing, too, as it signifies some demand for a Dodge-brand legend that could live on - even if it is to do so under a different corporate umbrella.

All-in, The Pentastar has only sold 25,000 copies of the Viper since it went on sale in 1992. Thanks for the tip, Dave!

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT-10

[Source: CNN Money]

Dodge Viper assembly plant first Chrysler facility to restart after bankruptcy? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Congressional letter alleges Nardelli and Chrysler failed to disclose more lucrative offer for Viper

Chris Paukert — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Government/Legal, Supercars, Chrysler, Dodge, Earnings/Financials

In a letter from California Congressman Darrell Issa to Chrysler's Bob Nardelli, the Auburn Hills executive is charged with failing to disclose information regarding the sale of the Dodge Viper line.

According to the letter obtained by Autoblog from a source close to the situation, the Republican congressman cites Nardelli's explanation as part of the automaker's bankruptcy proceeding that there was "a lack of 'purchaser interest in response to the offering of Chrysler's Connor Avenue Viper manufacturing plant for $10 million." And yet, the letter states, "The Committee has conducted interviews and reviewed materials that clearly show there was in fact one purchaser willing to pay $35 million to purchase the Viper line."

The communication indicates that discussions were held as early as February between Chrysler's emissaries and Joseph Moch Sr. and Joseph Moch Jr. to buy all of the company's Viper-related assets. Further, an oral agreement was reportedly reached in April, with an acquisition agreement drafted later that month for $35 million - substantially more than the $10 million Chrysler was reportedly seeking for the Connor Avenue plant.

Despite the offer from Moch and apparent interest from other companies, the letter notes that Chrysler only reported a single bid for its Viper business to the bankruptcy court's Judge Arthur Gonzalez - the much smaller $5.5 million offer from Devon Motor Works reported last week. In the letter, Congressman Issa warns Nardelli:

"Failure to make this disclosure may have been illegal if you knowingly made false statements in response to questions under oath."

Perhaps the central question is: Why would Nardelli and Co. fail to disclose the Moch offer? Issa's letter offers a theory:

As you know, the Fiat group includes Ferrari, a Viper competitor in the sports car market. If it is the case that Fiat used its "hard-fought" superior bargaining position to establish as a condition of the merger a requirement that Chrysler allow the Viper brand to disappear in order to reduce competition for Ferrari, this too must be presented to the court.

Issa goes on to urge Nardelli to "disclose all legiimate offers for Viper to the court at the hearing," (which is slated to occur today, June 5) as well as "all records and communications between Chrysler and its agents with Joseph Moch Sr., Joseph Moch Jr., and their legal representatives."

So... did Nardelli and Chrysler really fail to disclose more lucrative offers for the Viper - possibly because of pressure from new parent Fiat? Stay tuned.

Congressional letter alleges Nardelli and Chrysler failed to disclose more lucrative offer for Viper originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Dodge Viper GT3 and Porsche GT3 battle at the 'Ring

Chris Shunk — Wed, 20 May 2009 10:27:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Videos, Dodge, Porsche

Click the image above to view the video after the jump

The Nurburgring demands respect, and the Viper GT3 and Porsche GT3 are world-class race cars that demand that you get the Hell out of their way. Put the two together, and you've got a winning formula. Watching cars drive around the track shouldn't be this much fun. But the race-ready Viper and 911 took the 'Ring by the horns, and are sure to keep your eyes glued to the screen. The Viper sounds like pure evil out on the track, yet the agility of the Porsche is even more impressive, especially since it keeps pace with the Viper on the long straight-away.

Hit the jump to take in all the action. The Porsche stays in front for most of the lap, which is good for us because the Viper had a picture-perfect in-car camera that lays out the action sublimely. In fact, watching from the vantage-point of the Viper makes it feel like you're playing Gran Turismo, except cheating by cutting corners and jamming the guy in front of you to take the lead is a really bad idea for both car and driver.

[Source: Speed Hunters]

Continue reading VIDEO: Dodge Viper GT3 and Porsche GT3 battle at the 'Ring

VIDEO: Dodge Viper GT3 and Porsche GT3 battle at the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 May 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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What does Chrysler's restructuring plan have in store for the Viper?

Noah Joseph — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:56:00 EST

Filed under: Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat

Dodge Viper SRT-10 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Long before factors like bankruptcy and Fiat's involvement, Chrysler was looking to offload the Viper line. Several potential buyers were reportedly being considered, but months down the line no deal has been announced. In the meantime, of course, Chrysler has announced it will be filing Chapter 11 before restructuring in a new partnership with Fiat. But what of the Viper at this point?

According to emerging reports, it could face the axe. Chrysler says it is still considering offers on the Viper line, but an in-depth analysis of the company's restructuring strategy suggests that the Viper would fall into "OldCo", the term applied to Chrysler's liabilities and bad assets that will be shed during the bankruptcy process. The Conner Avenue Assembly plant where 115 workers build the Viper is one of several earmarked for potential closure, along with Chrysler's facilities in Newark, Twinsburg, Kenosha, two plants in St. Louis and the Detroit Axle factory. Although the Viper is an entirely different beast to the exotica built by Fiat subsidiary Ferrari, considering what the Dodge supercar represents, we couldn't imagine Fiat being too eager to keep the Viper alive.

The Viper isn't the only Chrysler product at risk, however, as several trucks - including the Dodge Ram, Dakota and Jeep Wrangler, believe it or not - could also be shed as Chrysler aims to streamline. Follow the link for the full analysis.

[Source: Inside Line]

What does Chrysler's restructuring plan have in store for the Viper? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 May 2009 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Quick Snake: Stock 2008 Dodge Viper runs 10-second quarter mile

Drew Phillips — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:02:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Supercars, Dodge

2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Dodge Viper isn't for everyone. It's raw and brutal, and it takes a certain type of person to appreciate the its outlandish personality. Regardless of whether you like or dislike Dodge's flagship supercar, it's hard to argue against its capabilities. The Viper ACR is unmatched around the Nurburgring, besting the Corvette ZR1 and much more expensive supercars like the Maserati MC12, Pagani Zonda F and Ferrari Enzo.

Apparently, it's quite a drag racer too, according to one owner, Jamie Furman, who took out his brand new, bone stock Viper SRT10 Convertible with just 100 miles on the odometer and ripped off a 10.92-second quarter mile. Most media outlets have tested the Viper's 1/4 mile time in the 11.6- to 11.9-second range, so with the right conditions and a perfect launch, we can see how the run was possible. In this situation, it seems the owner managed to get those optimal conditions and pair it with a great launch, resulting in a record-breaking time slip.

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT-10

[Source: DragTimes.com]

One Quick Snake: Stock 2008 Dodge Viper runs 10-second quarter mile originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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