Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Chrysler readying Hellcat V8 with Viper-like power]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


A monstrous supercharged V8 engine could be in store for Chrysler and SRT products, if recent rumors are to be believed. Allpar is reporting that the forced-induction V8 - Chrysler's first, if this goes down - could make its debut this summer.

The story goes that the Hellcat would be based on a 6.2-liter Hemi engine, rather than on the existing 5.7- or 6.4-liter versions of the company's vaunted mill. In any case, the general consensus is that the motor will have gobs of power. Modest estimates call for between 500 to 570 horsepower, with some outliers predicting a figure as high as 600 hp. That figure would put the output of the Hellcat awfully close to that of the 640-hp V10 in the SRT Viper, too. Allpar contends that a slightly less powerful version would allow Chrysler to keep costs below that of the more powerful Ford Shelby GT500, which might be a sweet spot.

The Hellcat could debut in a number of SRT products. SRT versions of the Charger, Challenger and 300 are all up for grabs, as is the rumored SRT Barracuda.

Chrysler readying Hellcat V8 with Viper-like power originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barracudachryslerchrysler 300dodgedodge challengerdodge chargerhellcathellcat hemi v8hemisrtsrt viperTue, 21 May 2013 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20577853/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/20577853/article-detail.xml 20577853 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2012-dodge-charger-srt8-engine-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2012-dodge-charger-srt8-engine-628.jpg <![CDATA[Viper GTS-R will have first full season chronicled in web series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/viper-gts-r-will-have-first-full-season-chronicled-in-web-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/viper-gts-r-will-have-first-full-season-chronicled-in-web-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/viper-gts-r-will-have-first-full-season-chronicled-in-web-series/#commentsFiled under: , ,



SRT will be documenting its second season - and first full season - of Viper GTS-R racing in the American Le Mans Series with a new web series called Beyond the Checkered Flag. We don't know much yet, but the team has released a teaser video (below) and promises the series will run at least four episodes, if not more. The videos will feature all six drivers who are responsible for piloting the No. 93 and 91 Viper GTS-R cars that compete in each race, and each episode will be told from a different perspective of the action (drivers, the pits, the fans, etc.).

As we've mentioned before, the return of the Viper to motorsports is a big deal, and we're excited that SRT Motorsports has decided to document it. The car's first go around in racing began in the late '90s and peaked during the fledgling seasons of the then-new American Le Mans Series when the Viper GTS-R won 16 of 18 races during 1999 and 2000. The new Viper GTS-R hasn't been nearly as dominant as the original since returning to ALMS racing last August, the team having only just achieved its first podium finish a few weeks ago in Long Beach with one of its cars finishing third.

The first episode of Beyond the Checkered Flag, which should air in mid-May, will focus on preparations for the 2013 season, specifically the time leading up to the season-opening 12 Hours of Sebring in March. Spoiler alert: the team didn't win its class, though the No. 91 car did lead for much of the race and finished fifth, scoring valuable championship points to kick off the team's first competitive season back.

Scroll down to watch the trailer for Beyond the Checkered Flag.

Continue reading Viper GTS-R will have first full season chronicled in web series

Viper GTS-R will have first full season chronicled in web series originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>almsbeyond the checkered flagsrtsrt motorsportssrt vipersrt viper gts-rTue, 07 May 2013 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20560675/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/viper-gts-r-will-have-first-full-season-chronicled-in-web-series/20560675/article-detail.xml 20560675 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/viper-beyond-the-checkered-flag_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/viper-beyond-the-checkered-flag.jpg <![CDATA[2013 SRT Viper spends its days living life a quarter mile at a time]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/2013-srt-viper-spends-its-days-living-life-a-quarter-mile-at-a-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/2013-srt-viper-spends-its-days-living-life-a-quarter-mile-at-a-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/2013-srt-viper-spends-its-days-living-life-a-quarter-mile-at-a-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 SRT Viper drag strip

There are lots of ways to measure the performance of a car, but there's only one that is quintessentially American: the quarter mile. And while we've already seen a proper comparison test or two that puts the new (and also quintessentially American) SRT Viper on a racetrack, we've yet to see what it can do when put in the hands of a proper drag racer for an entire day of tire-burning performance testing. Now we do.

And so the $64,000 question is, How does it perform? Pretty well indeed, recording a best time of 11.1 seconds at 127.4 miles per hour, wearing street-legal drag radials with the boys from Drag Times behind the wheel. That run included 3.1 seconds for the big Viper to hit 60, and it took just 7.1 seconds to reach 100. Impressive performance, to be sure. But those figures need to be put in context for the full picture... in other words, how does its acceleration compare to such high-horsepower rivals as the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and Ford Mustang Shelby GT500?

Well, without running all three of these muscle machines down the same track on the same day with the same driver, it's not going to be a fair comparison. Plus, the Corvette in particular has had several models years for drivers to keep plugging away for the best possible results. That said, the Viper's 11.1 seconds at 127.4 mph is well shy of Drag Times' best recorded (and verified) ZR1 time slip of 10.332 seconds at 132.74 mph, and there are a total of seven documented ZR1 runs quicker than the Viper's.

As for the GT500, the best recorded run on file at Drag Times is 11.570 seconds at 124.3 mph. So, it's not as quick as the Viper or ZR1, but we wouldn't really expect it to be. In any case, it's a fun comparison for bragging rights, but it's anything but scientific. In other words, take all this with a healthy spoonful of salt and stay tuned for more in this space from all three of the American automakers.

Check out a video from Drag Times below, and remember, reaction time doesn't matter in this scenario.

Continue reading 2013 SRT Viper spends its days living life a quarter mile at a time

2013 SRT Viper spends its days living life a quarter mile at a time originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 srt viperdodge viperdrag racedrag timesquarter milesrtsrt vipervideoviper drag raceWed, 24 Apr 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547271/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/2013-srt-viper-spends-its-days-living-life-a-quarter-mile-at-a-t/20547271/article-detail.xml 20547271 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-srt-viper-drag-times_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-srt-viper-drag-times.png <![CDATA[See how SRT cooks up new paint colors in its 'kitchen']]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/see-how-srt-cooks-up-new-paint-colors-in-its-kitchen/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/see-how-srt-cooks-up-new-paint-colors-in-its-kitchen/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/see-how-srt-cooks-up-new-paint-colors-in-its-kitchen/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

SRT Color Kitchen - Viper coupe - screencap

Paint colors are a big deal for any automaker, and choosing hues for a specific brand can take as much fretting and focus as nearly any other aspect of vehicle design. For SRT, that means finding colors that cooperate with everything from the high-performance Grand Cherokee SRT8 SUV and the Chrysler 300 SRT8 sports sedan, to the wilder Charger SRT8, Challenger SRT8 and Viper. That range requires more than a little breadth, and Jim Parker, Head of Exterior Color at Chrysler, recently took the time to sit down for a little video to talk about what goes on in the SRT Color Kitchen.

What start out as computer-generated images move to paint samples from a supplier, which then get sprayed on more complex shapes. From there, SRT may spray a whole car to see how the color looks in the flesh before ever giving the hue the nod for production. You can check out the video below to see how it goes for yourself.

Continue reading See how SRT cooks up new paint colors in its 'kitchen'

See how SRT cooks up new paint colors in its 'kitchen' originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 srt viperautomotive paintchryslerpaintpaint colorssrtsrt color kitchensrt vipervideoMon, 15 Apr 2013 17:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20540073/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/15/see-how-srt-cooks-up-new-paint-colors-in-its-kitchen/20540073/article-detail.xml 20540073 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/srt-color-kitchen-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/srt-color-kitchen-628.jpg <![CDATA[SRT's Ralph Gilles addresses the infamous <i>Motor Trend</i> Viper vs. ZR1 test]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/04/srts-ralph-gilles-addresses-the-infamous-motor-trend-vip/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/04/srts-ralph-gilles-addresses-the-infamous-motor-trend-vip/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/04/srts-ralph-gilles-addresses-the-infamous-motor-trend-vip/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ralph Gilles with Motor Trend staff

In one of the most interesting roundtable discussions we've seen in quite some time, the boys from Motor Trend, along with pro racing driver Randy Pobst, sat down with SRT head honcho Ralph Gilles to discuss the 2014 Viper. And the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, naturally. As you may remember, Motor Trend has filmed two videos pitting the latest Viper from SRT against the standard-bearing ZR1, with the Viper losing the first battle but barely eking out a victory with the upgraded TA model in the second.

A few interesting tidbits sneak out regarding the Viper, such as the fact that an ACR model isn't ready "yet," as well as the story of how the TA model came into existence after the first test by Motor Trend. Apparently, that test also resulted in a slight softening of the regular Viper's suspension for production. Interestingly, Gilles doesn't seem ready to admit defeat even in that first testing session, saying that the Viper used by MT was a pre-production model and that it had been out of alignment - that said, he does offer up an apology of sorts for "throwing gas on the fire" on social networks after the video hit the web.

Moving away from the Viper toward the end of the discussion, Gilles touches on the new Camaro Z28 and mentions that "the Challenger is under the knife as we speak... and we're going to come with an answer to [the Z28] and an answer for our friends at Ford." That sounds mighty intriguing... though Gilles also admits that a Cuda isn't coming "anytime soon," but that it is "a couple years out" on a different platform than the Challenger. Fortunately, it sounds like the next-generation of the Challenger SRT will make an appearance in New York in 2014.

There are plenty more interesting tidbits in the video, so we suggest you take about 20 minutes of at the end of your day to watch it yourself. Scroll down below to watch it, along with the two MT videos comparing the Viper and ZR1 at Laguna Seca.

Continue reading SRT's Ralph Gilles addresses the infamous Motor Trend Viper vs. ZR1 test

SRT's Ralph Gilles addresses the infamous Motor Trend Viper vs. ZR1 test originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevrolet corvette zr12013 srt viperchevrolet corvettemotor trendralph gillesrandy pobstsrtsrt vipersrt viper tavideoThu, 04 Apr 2013 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20530411/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/04/srts-ralph-gilles-addresses-the-infamous-motor-trend-vip/20530411/article-detail.xml 20530411 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mt-gilles-roundtable_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mt-gilles-roundtable.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler begins shipping 2013 SRT Viper]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/chrysler-begins-shipping-2013-srt-viper/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/chrysler-begins-shipping-2013-srt-viper/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/chrysler-begins-shipping-2013-srt-viper/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 SRT Viper - front three-quarter view at speed in the rain

Almost a year to the day after SRT president and CEO Ralph Gilles first introduced - and kissed the fender of - the 2013 SRT Viper at the 2012 New York Auto Show, the high-performance coupe has begun shipping to dealers. The first production cars started rolling off the line at Chrysler's Conner Avenue Assembly plant in Detroit back in January (a facility Gilles lovingly compares to Santa's workshop), but The Detroit News is reporting that the cars just started heading to customers across the US on Sunday.

Two of the first examples destined for driveways include a Stryker Red example that was the very 2013 Viper to be sold (the car was won by Scott Thomas of Oklahoma City at a Barrett-Jackson charity auction for cancer for $300,000), along with a white example headed to Gilles' personal collection. The report says that Gilles took delivery of his Viper and put just 30 miles on it before heading to New York for this week's auto show. What, he didn't drive?

Chrysler begins shipping 2013 SRT Viper originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 srt viper2013 srt viper productionconner avenue assembly plantralph gillessrtsrt viperFri, 29 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20523120/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/29/chrysler-begins-shipping-2013-srt-viper/20523120/article-detail.xml 20523120 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-srt-viper-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-srt-viper-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2014 SRT Viper TA attacks Manhattan [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-srt-viper-ta-video-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-srt-viper-ta-video-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-srt-viper-ta-video-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 SRT Viper TA live on stage at 2013 New York Auto Show

As if the 2013 SRT Viper GTS hasn't stirred up enough excitement, SRT has created a more specialized version of the car designed to attack any track. On display at the New York Auto Show, the 2014 Viper TA has been enhanced for even better track duty, but production will be limited to just 33 units when it goes on sale later this year.

Obvious changes to SRT's flagship performance car include upgraded Brembo brakes, a carbon fiber x-brace under the hood and carbon fiber front and rear spoilers - the latter aero changes providing about 300 pounds of additional downforce at speed. Oh, and if you didn't notice, the car will only be offered in this eye-blazing Crusher Orange paint job with black, lightweight wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires. The black-only interior gets similar contrasting orange stitching all over to bring some color indoors.

Less obvious changes include a revised two-mode Bilstein suspension that is firmer than the standard Viper GTS to begin with, and has a "smaller spread between the modes," suggesting that even though the car is road-legal, it's likely to be a pretty extreme ride. Asis the case with "lesser" Vipers, the TA relies on the 8.4-liter V10 to churn out 640 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque. Scroll down to watch video of how the TA came to be and to read the official press release.

Continue reading 2014 SRT Viper TA attacks Manhattan [w/video]

2014 SRT Viper TA attacks Manhattan [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 new york auto show2014 srt viper2014 srt viper tadodge vipernew yorknew york auto shownyias 2013srtsrt viperWed, 27 Mar 2013 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20519971/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/2014-srt-viper-ta-video-new-york/20519971/article-detail.xml 20519971 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-srt-viper-ta-new-york_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-srt-viper-ta-new-york.jpg <![CDATA[Viper TA track-special unveiled to avenge loss to ZR1 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/viper-ta-track-special-unveiled-to-avenge-loss-to-zr1/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/viper-ta-track-special-unveiled-to-avenge-loss-to-zr1/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/viper-ta-track-special-unveiled-to-avenge-loss-to-zr1/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Ready for round two? Friend of Autoblog and Motor Trend personality Jonny Lieberman has helped SRT whip the covers off the new Viper TA (which stands for Time Attack, apparently) by putting professional racecar driver Randy Pobst behind the wheel and pointing him at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with cameras in tow.

What those cameras captured includes plenty of footage of a Crusher Orange SRT Viper TA running amok at The Corkscrew and generally bludgeoning the race track into submission. Updates to the Viper package for TA duty include bigger brakes from Brembo, a Carbon Fiber Aero Package that includes a massive rear wing and a Track Package that boasts better wheels and Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires.

Weight savings are found via a new carbon fiber X-brace underhood along with badges that have been replaced with stickers (seriously). Perhaps most importantly, the TA comes equipped with the two-mode remote reservoir shocks seen on the more expensive GTS. While the GTS offers Street and Track modes, the TA goes a step further with Smooth and Rough settings - no Street mode here.

The result? According to Motor Trend, the TA is the fastest Viper it's ever tested, reaching 60 miles per hour in 3.3 seconds and a quarter-mile ET of 11.3 seconds at 129.3 mph. But is the TA good enough to beat the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, the car that beat the Viper the last time MT put them together at Laguna Seca? Scroll down below to find out, and join us in waiting for round three, when Chevy releases the next generation of its Corvette for the track.

Continue reading Viper TA track-special unveiled to avenge loss to ZR1 [w/video]

Viper TA track-special unveiled to avenge loss to ZR1 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 srt viper tachevychevy corvettechevy corvette zr1laguna secamotor trendrandy pobstsrtsrt vipersrt viper taMon, 18 Mar 2013 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20508952/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/18/viper-ta-track-special-unveiled-to-avenge-loss-to-zr1/20508952/article-detail.xml 20508952 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/srt-viper-ta-03-opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/srt-viper-ta-03-opt.png <![CDATA[Old vs. New: 2014 SRT Viper takes on upgraded 16-year-old Dodge Viper]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/old-vs-new-2014-srt-viper-takes-on-upgraded-16-year-old-dodge/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/old-vs-new-2014-srt-viper-takes-on-upgraded-16-year-old-dodge/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/old-vs-new-2014-srt-viper-takes-on-upgraded-16-year-old-dodge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Old vs. New Viper - C/D video screencap

It's easy to play the "Would you rather have a New X or an Old Y with a bunch of upgrades?" game more often than we care to admit, but the crew at Car and Driver have taken bench racing to the next level with their latest video. In it, the magazine pits a brand-new 2014 SRT Viper against a highly modified 1997 Dodge Viper GTS. There are 16 years between the time this particular GTS rolled off the production line and when the new car bowed, but that doesn't mean the old snake's owners have been sitting on their hands.

Thanks to a spate of modifications, the GTS offers up a better power to weight ratio than the new machine, but is that enough to overcome the technological leap forward represented by the 2014 Viper? We won't spoil it for you. You'll just have to check out the full clip below for yourself.

Continue reading Old vs. New: 2014 SRT Viper takes on upgraded 16-year-old Dodge Viper

Old vs. New: 2014 SRT Viper takes on upgraded 16-year-old Dodge Viper originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1997 dodge viper gts2014 srt vipercar and driverdodgeold vs new videosrtsrt vipervideoviperviper gtsFri, 08 Feb 2013 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20454330/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/08/old-vs-new-2014-srt-viper-takes-on-upgraded-16-year-old-dodge/20454330/article-detail.xml 20454330 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/old-v-new-viper-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/old-v-new-viper-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #316]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/autoblog-podcast-316/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/autoblog-podcast-316/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/autoblog-podcast-316/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Detroit Auto Show recap featuring Corvette, plus Ralph Gilles interview autoblog podcast logo

Episode #316 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Chris Paukert and Michael Harley talk about the sights that have been seen at the 2013 North American International Auto Show, especially the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette. Plus, Dan and Zach recorded an interview with Ralph Gilles, head of SRT and design for Chrysler, and we share that as part of the podcast as well. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #316:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8
2013 Buick Enclave

Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Paukert, Michael Harley


Runtime: 01:50:11

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #316

Autoblog Podcast #316 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick enclave2013 chrysler 300 srt82013 detroit auto show2013 hyundai santa fe2014 chevrolet corvette2014 corvette300300 srt8autoblog podcast 316buickc7chevroletchryslercorvettedetroitdetroit 2013detroit auto showenclavefeaturedgilleshyundaipodcastralph gillessanta fesrtsrt viperviperTue, 15 Jan 2013 16:50:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #316Autoblog01:50:11 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20429206/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/15/autoblog-podcast-316/20429206/article-detail.xml 20429206 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Connor Assembly reopens, first production SRT Viper goes down the line]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/connor-assembly-reopens-first-production-srt-viper-goes-down-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/connor-assembly-reopens-first-production-srt-viper-goes-down-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/connor-assembly-reopens-first-production-srt-viper-goes-down-th/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Celebrations at Chrysler today, as the company posted the image above on its Facebook page showing a 2013 SRT Viper, VIN #001, rolling out of its Conner Assembly Plant in Detroit. New owner Scott Thomas (pictured with his family standing next to Sergio Marchionne) is understandably pleased.

As you may recall, the 400,000 square-foot Conner facility closed in the summer of 2010 with no immediate plans for it to reopen. However, things changed the following year when the automaker chose to open the plant for the next-gen Viper and implement Fiat's World Class Manufacturing (WCM) production system. (WCM is a methodology that makes employee safety the number one priority, focusing on eliminating waste, increasing productivity, improving quality and restoring dignity to the employees, says Chrysler.)

Completely modernized, the state-of-the-art facility is now tasked with producing the all-new SRT Viper. The sport car's frames arrive from an outside supplier in Kentucky, before spending upwards of six days inside Conner for assembly and finishing before they are ready for delivery. The plant is expected to produce about twelve Vipers each day. Read more of the details in the press release below.

Continue reading Connor Assembly reopens, first production SRT Viper goes down the line

Connor Assembly reopens, first production SRT Viper goes down the line originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conner avenue assembly plantsrtsrt viperviperThu, 10 Jan 2013 17:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20425418/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/10/connor-assembly-reopens-first-production-srt-viper-goes-down-th/20425418/article-detail.xml 20425418 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/19929628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/19929628.jpg <![CDATA[Watch <i>Motor Trend</i> give the 2013 SRT Viper a thrashing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/watch-motor-trend-give-the-2013-srt-viper-a-thrashing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/watch-motor-trend-give-the-2013-srt-viper-a-thrashing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/watch-motor-trend-give-the-2013-srt-viper-a-thrashing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

SRT Viper

It's no secret the boys and girls at Motor Trend don't look at the 2013 SRT Viper through rose-tinted lenses. After all, the publication recently chose the Corvette ZR1 over the new supercar from Chrysler, saying the Chevrolet was easier to drive quickly. That's bad news given there's a new Corvette coming down the pike. But until now, we haven't been able to watch Motor Trend give the Viper a proper thrashing. Carlos Lago hopped behind the wheel of the V10-powered bruiser to give the machine a once-over.

While Chrysler has made big waves about the Viper's improved interior, Lago wasn't too impressed, saying there's plenty of the old car in the cabin. With a pedal box pushed toward the driver's side, a rough ride and a noisy cockpit, MT found that the Viper lags behind its European counterparts, but there's certainly no arguing against the machine's straight-line thrust. The magazine managed to rip off a 3.4-second 0-60 mph time during testing.

In the end, Lago finds that the Viper still earns its brutish reputation, but is somewhat more controllable. Check out the review for yourself below, including a segment with pro Randy Pobst at Laguna Seca.

Continue reading Watch Motor Trend give the 2013 SRT Viper a thrashing

Watch Motor Trend give the 2013 SRT Viper a thrashing originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 srt vipermotor trendsrtsrt vipervideoviperThu, 27 Dec 2012 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20411909/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/27/watch-motor-trend-give-the-2013-srt-viper-a-thrashing/20411909/article-detail.xml 20411909 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/viper-motor-trend_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/viper-motor-trend.jpg <![CDATA[SRT Viper GTS-R stars in Forza's September Car Pack [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/srt-viper-gts-r-stars-in-forzas-september-car-pack-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/srt-viper-gts-r-stars-in-forzas-september-car-pack-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/srt-viper-gts-r-stars-in-forzas-september-car-pack-w-video/#commentsFiled under: ,

SRT Viper GTS-R Forza Car Pack

Forza Motorsport added the 2013 SRT Viper to its extensive collection of cars as part of a free DLC back in June, but with the launch of the Viper GTS-R in ALMS this summer we knew it was only a matter of time before the racing snake would be included in the game. That time has come, as both the #91 #93 Viper GTS-R race cars headline Forza's September Car Pack.

In addition to the Viper GTS-R duo the September Car Pack includes some pretty desirable classic vehicles as well. The 1968 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato and 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR are all on the list, as well some oddities like the 1983 GMC Vandura G-1500 aka the A-Team van.

You can see the full list of cars included in the Forza September Car Pack below as well as a video trailer showing the Viper GTS-R in action in the game.

Continue reading SRT Viper GTS-R stars in Forza's September Car Pack [w/video]

SRT Viper GTS-R stars in Forza's September Car Pack [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Sep 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>forzaforza 4forza motorsportforza september car packsrtsrt vipersrt viper gts-rThu, 06 Sep 2012 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20317768/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/06/srt-viper-gts-r-stars-in-forzas-september-car-pack-w-video/20317768/article-detail.xml 20317768 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/srt-viper-gtsr-forza-car-pack_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/srt-viper-gtsr-forza-car-pack.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Viper GTS Launch Edition takes a bow at Quail Motorsports Gathering]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/18/2013-viper-gts-launch-edition-takes-a-bow-at-quail-motorsports-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/18/2013-viper-gts-launch-edition-takes-a-bow-at-quail-motorsports-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/18/2013-viper-gts-launch-edition-takes-a-bow-at-quail-motorsports-g/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 SRT Viper GTS Launch Edition at Quail Motorsports Gathering

Chrysler took the time to show off the first special edition version of the 2013 SRT Viper. Dipped in the same GTS blue paint as the original Viper, the GTS Launch Edition also wears the same Bright White racing stripes from nose to tail. Chrysler says the combination will only be available on Launch Edition cars and that the final production will be limited. How limited? The company isn't saying, though we imagine you'll need to know your local dealer pretty well to bring one of these machines home.

Inside, each Viper GTS Launch Edition comes with its own dash-mounted identification plaque as well as Black Laguna leather seats with contrast stitching. An Alcantara headliner and white-face guages with silver trim complete the look.

The Launch Edition is the first Viper to wear the redesigned Viper logo. Chrysler calls the design "Stryker," and the newest snake follows in the footsteps of the original "Sneaky Pete" and "Fang" emblems. Check it out in the gallery below.

2013 Viper GTS Launch Edition takes a bow at Quail Motorsports Gathering originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 Aug 2012 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 srt viper2013 srt viper gts launch editionmontereymonterey 2012quailquail motorsports gatheringsrt viperviper gts launch editionviper launch editionSat, 18 Aug 2012 11:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20303772/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/18/2013-viper-gts-launch-edition-takes-a-bow-at-quail-motorsports-g/20303772/article-detail.xml 20303772 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-srt-viper-launch-edition-monterey-1345241689_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-srt-viper-launch-edition-monterey-1345241689.jpg <![CDATA[Watch SRT's Viper GTS-R return to professional racing at Mid-Ohio]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/watch-srts-viper-gts-r-return-to-professional-racing-at-mid-ohi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/watch-srts-viper-gts-r-return-to-professional-racing-at-mid-ohi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/watch-srts-viper-gts-r-return-to-professional-racing-at-mid-ohi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

SRT Viper GTS-R returns to racing at Mid-Ohio

Spectators at this past weekend's ALMS race at Mid-Ohio made sure to pay special attention to the two Viper GTS-R racers with their video cameras, and Chrysler's cameras were out in full force as well. It was the first race for SRT Motorsport's Team Viper after a lenthy hiatus. Both V10 racers had to run their 8.0-liter engines with an air restrictor because the rest of the class runs with 5.5 liters. The 455-horsepower snakes finished the race in 10th and 12th place overall while gathering valuable data.

Oh, about that "thundering in your ears" that Autoblog Editor-in-chief John Neff mentioned in his race coverage? They've still got it. Big time. Have a watch and a listen of the videos below.

Team Viper and their thundering coupes head to Road America in two weeks.

Continue reading Watch SRT's Viper GTS-R return to professional racing at Mid-Ohio

Watch SRT's Viper GTS-R return to professional racing at Mid-Ohio originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>almsamerican le mans seriesdodge viperdodge viper srt-10mid-ohioralph gillessrtsrt vipersrt viper gts-rvideoviperviper gts-rTue, 07 Aug 2012 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20294871/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/07/watch-srts-viper-gts-r-return-to-professional-racing-at-mid-ohi/20294871/article-detail.xml 20294871 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/vipergts-rmid-ohio_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/vipergts-rmid-ohio.jpg <![CDATA[39 seconds of Viper GTS-R testing at VIR. That is all.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/39-seconds-of-viper-gts-r-testing-at-vir-that-is-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/39-seconds-of-viper-gts-r-testing-at-vir-that-is-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/39-seconds-of-viper-gts-r-testing-at-vir-that-is-all/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SRT Viper GTS-R prototype undergoes testing - front three-quarter view

The Viper GTS-R continues its march to a motorsports debut later this year in the GT class of the American Le Mans Series. Following its surprise debut alongside the new production SRT Viper at the 2012 New York Auto Show, the GTS-R underwent its first on-track test at Carolina Motorsports Park earlier this month. This time, however, the SRT crew took the GTS-R to Virginia International Raceway, an important track because it's actually on the ALMS schedule.

In fact, while we don't know the exact race at which the GTS-R will makes its competitive debut, we have been told it will race before the end of the 2012 season. The race at VIR occurs on September 15 and is the second-to-last race of the season, so the SRT Motorsports team could be getting some precious practice time in on the track at which they intend to unleash the new Viper GTS-R. All we know is that we're glad they brought their Go Pros along.

See the video yourself below.

Continue reading 39 seconds of Viper GTS-R testing at VIR. That is all.

39 seconds of Viper GTS-R testing at VIR. That is all. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jun 2012 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>almsamerican le mans seriesgt classsrtsrt viperviperviper gts-rviper srt-10virvirginia internatinal racewayThu, 28 Jun 2012 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20268607/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/28/39-seconds-of-viper-gts-r-testing-at-vir-that-is-all/20268607/article-detail.xml 20268607 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/srt-viper-gtr-s-vir_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/srt-viper-gtr-s-vir.jpg <![CDATA[First production 2013 SRT Viper nets $300,000 at Barrett-Jackson [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/23/first-production-2013-srt-viper-nets-300-000-at-barrett-jackson/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/23/first-production-2013-srt-viper-nets-300-000-at-barrett-jackson/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/23/first-production-2013-srt-viper-nets-300-000-at-barrett-jackson/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 SRT Viper GTS

It's become customary for automakers to offer up the first production example of collectible cars, so it was no surprise that SRT announced earlier this year that 2013 Viper GTS VIN #1 would be selling at Barrett-Jackson's Orange County auction. Adding to the auction's appeal, proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Austin Hatcher Foundation, an organization that helps children and families dealing with issues resulting from pediatric cancer.

With the Viper's 640 horsepower V10 and beautiful carbon fiber bodywork shining under the lights, bidding for the red snake rose quickly past the six figure sticker price to a quarter of a million dollars. At this point an SRT Track Experience and a trip to this year's Petit Le Mans were thrown in as a bonus to go with the car, but it couldn't entice any bidders to go much higher and the hammer fell at $300,000.

You can view our huge gallery of photos of the 2013 SRT Viper GTS at Barrett-Jackson above, watch a video of the auction below, or head over to the Austin Hatcher Foundation web site to make a donation of your own.

Continue reading First production 2013 SRT Viper nets $300,000 at Barrett-Jackson [w/video]

First production 2013 SRT Viper nets $300,000 at Barrett-Jackson [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 23 Jun 2012 18:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 srt viper2013 srt viper gtsbarrett-jacksonbarrett-jackson orange countybarrett-jackson orange county 2012srtsrt viperSat, 23 Jun 2012 18:18:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20264817/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/23/first-production-2013-srt-viper-nets-300-000-at-barrett-jackson/20264817/article-detail.xml 20264817 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-srt-viper-gts-bj_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-srt-viper-gts-bj.jpg <![CDATA[SRT Viper GTS-R completes first track test [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/10/srt-viper-gts-r-completes-first-track-test-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/10/srt-viper-gts-r-completes-first-track-test-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/10/srt-viper-gts-r-completes-first-track-test-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SRT Viper GTS-R

This week, the new SRT Viper GTS-R hit the racetrack for the very first time at Carolina Motorsports Park, in the wake of its surprise unveiling at the New York Auto Show in April. According to the SRT Motorsports team in attendance, the shakedown run was an overwhelming success with the car performing better than expected. "To basically build that car, start it up the first time like the day before and have it run around the whole day and do everything it was supposed to do was a huge achievement," said Gary Johnson, SRT Motorsports road racing manager.

SRT still has plenty of work ahead of it, though, as several more track tests are needed before the Viper GTS-R makes its ALMS competition debut later this season. At that point, the race Viper will have its hands full with the rest of the competitive GT field. It's not as if the guys from Corvette, BMW, Porsche, Ferrari and Aston Martin are going to give the newcomer a break.

Video from the 2013 Viper GTS-R's first track test and the official announcement from SRT are posted below.

Continue reading SRT Viper GTS-R completes first track test [w/video]

SRT Viper GTS-R completes first track test [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 srt viperdodgedodge vipersrtsrt vipersrt viper gts-rviperviper gts-rviper srt-10viper srt10Sun, 10 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20255144/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/10/srt-viper-gts-r-completes-first-track-test-w-video/20255144/article-detail.xml 20255144 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/srt-viper-gts-r-test_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/srt-viper-gts-r-test.jpg <![CDATA[2013 SRT Viper to require dealer certification; hardcore model planned? [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/2013-srt-viper-to-require-dealer-certification-hardcore-model-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/2013-srt-viper-to-require-dealer-certification-hardcore-model-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/2013-srt-viper-to-require-dealer-certification-hardcore-model-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 SRT Viper GTS - Live at 2012 New York Auto Show reveal

On Thursday night's Autoline After Hours, SRT boss Ralph Gilles sat down with show hosts John McElroy and Peter DeLorenzo, along with Autoblog and AOL Autos staffers to talk all things Viper. Among the interesting tidbits disclosed about the 640-horsepower supercar are plans for a new dealer certification process designed to encourage the sort of purchasing, service and ownership experience that buyers of six-digit cars have come to expect.

According to Gilles:

"It's going to be a qualified dealer situation... The ones who do the dealer training in terms of the tech. I want a tech. I want a display car. I want all these things. There's going to be a list. It's not going to be impossible, it's just that someone has to put in the extra effort and say 'I'm an SRT dealer.'"

Off the air, Gilles told Autoblog that Chrysler officials have already approached a number of dealers with a strong record of Viper and SRT sales to discuss how the certification process will work, gaining valuable feedback in the process. A document outlining the new certification program will go out to Dodge dealers next month.

Chrysler has yet to announce official pricing and the Viper won't go on sale until sometime in the fourth quarter of the year, but that hasn't stopped a queue of customer deposits from piling up. According to Gilles, one particularly strong Viper dealer already has around 90 such deposits in-hand. Considering that Viper sales averaged about 1,600 units in past years, that's a substantial figure.

In other news, Chrysler officials have been making a big point of talking about the 2013 Viper's newfound refinements, from reduced NVH to nicer interior materials and improved drivability thanks to the institution of technologies like stability control and traction control. Gilles says that great care has been taken to ensure the model's core personality still shines through, but given that much of the Viper's mystique is centered on its raw, leg-burning, hairy-knuckled persona, we couldn't help but wonder aloud if the new model's refinements have left room for a stripped-out hardcore version for Viper purists and racers. With raised eyebrows, arms gesturing wildly and stifling a smile, Gilles wryly said: "I love how you think. Next subject!"

To watch the Autoline After Hours episode in its entirety, scroll down.

Continue reading 2013 SRT Viper to require dealer certification; hardcore model planned? [w/video]

2013 SRT Viper to require dealer certification; hardcore model planned? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 srt viperautolineautoline after hoursdodgedodge viperdodge viper srt10ralph gillessrtsrt dealersrt vipervideoviperviper gtsviper srt10Fri, 18 May 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20240772/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/18/2013-srt-viper-to-require-dealer-certification-hardcore-model-p/20240772/article-detail.xml 20240772 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/040412kesselmannyiassrthr0126-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/040412kesselmannyiassrthr0126-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: SRT Viper Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/rendered-speculation-srt-viper-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/rendered-speculation-srt-viper-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/rendered-speculation-srt-viper-roadster/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

SRT Viper RoadsterWhen our man Scott Burgess asked SRT CEO Ralph Gilles about the Dodge SRT Viper Roadster, Gilles naturally demurred. The Internet, however, always provides an answer to every question, and German magazine Auto Bild has rendered its take on the droptop snake.

Unlike previously, when the coupe and roadster were rather dissimilar, this time the brotherhood will be more traditional... at least according to this artist's take.

We won't speculate on how close the rendering might be, but we will say we like it. With the coupe having already enjoyed its 600-horsepower burst onto the scene, it shouldn't be long before the roadster begins leaking its way out.

Rendered Speculation: SRT Viper Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 srt viper2013 srt viper roadster2014 srt viper roadsterdodgesrtsrt vipersrt viper roadsterviperviper roadsterWed, 09 May 2012 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20232561/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/rendered-speculation-srt-viper-roadster/20232561/article-detail.xml 20232561 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/viperconvtspec_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/viperconvtspec.jpg -1 2