1997 Dodge Viper GTS
Generously lent by John J. Rego
Inspired by the Shelby Cobra
Brutal, muscular driving experience
GTS iteration is the best of Viper
Built to represent the spiritual revival of the Shelby Cobra, the Dodge Viper hit the market in 1992 as one of the most thrilling yet dangerous sports cars released in years. Over the last three decades it has grown to be one of the most respected and recognizable American cars ever built. Even though Chrysler nearly went bankrupt in the 1980’s, they owned Lamborghini, who would be significant help in designing the 8.0-liter V10, the most outrageous engine built in the 1990’s.
In 1989, Chrysler president Bob Lutz suggested that the company should build a modern Shelby Cobra. He allowed the head of design, Tom Gale, to use his freedom to create the best possible sports car devoid of anything that was not essential to the car’s performance. Dodge needed an image revival. Even with worries the car would not be draw legitimate buyers, the company moved forward with production. After appearing as a concept at the 1989 North American Auto Show and driven by Carroll Shelby as the pace car at the Indianapolis 500, the public fell in love with the Viper, and the Chrysler Corporation was already back on track.
The original Viper had no air conditioning, door handles and simply a canvas roof. No traction-control included either, leading to a demanding driving experience for the average driver. The Viper GTS, seen here on display, was a serious redesign with 90% of the car changed from the original car. Now with 450 horsepower and a roof inspired by the Shelby Daytona Coupe designed by Peter Brock, the Viper had evolved into a world class supercar. 90 pounds were shed after revisions to the exhaust system and suspension components. The GTS was much more refined than the original Viper – and now with door handles!
Just like in the 1950s and 60s when European manufacturers were focused on building smaller, more efficient sports cars, Dodge went big and bold, building the most monstrous sports cars since its inspiration, the Shelby Cobra. The sports car world did not see an engine this large until the Bugatti Veyron was released, and the Veyron had six more cylinders! The Viper GTS was not a cheap car upon its release, and it certainly hasn’t depreciated over the last 25 years. As manufacturers move closer to electric vehicle production, we must assume that the popularity of the Viper will continue to increase for years to come.
Specifications
Engine: 8.0 Liter V10
Horsepower: 450 @ 5200 RPM
Torque: 490 @ 3700 RPM
0-60 MPH: 4.2 Seconds
Top Speed: 184 MPH
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
Weight: 3444 lbs.