Dodge Viper GTS: Spotted

Because why wouldn't you want an 8.0-litre V10?

More often than not, when a model is replaced it fulfils broadly the same remit as its predecessor. A new Focus will still rival a Golf, the smallest Ferrari will always have a Lamborghini equivalent and 3 Series v C-Class will surely run and run.

Scared yet?

But the Dodge Viper seems a little different, not least because it isn't a Viper anymore. Yes the V10 remains and it still looks like nothing else, but the relentless focus on lap times (see last year's Time Attack) and trick dynamics seems at odds with the modern Cobra vibe of the original. Looking fantastic going very fast in a straight line may not be a sophisticated trick, but it's one the Viper did very well. With the added seriousness of the later models, arguably some of its muscle car appeal has been lost. If it's legitimate, this Viper can wear its 'ring sticker with pride. It must have been terrifying.

It's more than 20 years since the original Viper appeared, and 15 since the arrival of the GTS. That the outlandish styling has lost none of its impact is testament to how right it was from the off. The wheels here lack something compared to those iconic three-spoke rims on the roadster but the gigantic bonnet and wildly exaggerated arches for the rear tyres give it an undeniable presence. And if red was the colour for the roadster, Blue with white stripes is surely the only combo for the GTS.

This is A Big Engine

That monster bonnet of course cloaks a beast of an engine. An 8.0-litre V10 was a ludicrous powerplant in the 90s; in a world where downsizing is nearly mandatory, it looks all the more absurd. And wonderful.

Moreover, it will be a totally unique engine to use, fundamentally different in character to the V10s seen more recently in the Lexus LFA, BMW M6 and Lamborghini Gallardo. Because of those infamous origins, it lugs rather than revs; the redline is at 6,000rpm and the torque peak of 490lb ft registered at 3,700rpm. That seems quite high actually, but there's unlikely to be a paucity of torque anywhere. It's an 8.0-litre engine!

As an American import, the GTS is of course LHD. But think of it this way: would it be that much easier in RHD? It's already going to be a challenge anyway, and visibility doesn't look great from either side really. Gearchange awkward? Leave it in fourth.

Dealer in RHD photo mode...

This car actually has an interesting back story, being a demonstrator (but most definitely 'not a press car') for Chrysler UK, then bought by a Chrysler dealer before ending up with its previous owner since 2002. It has gained a Mopar exhaust along the way (good news surely) as well as a 'Full Audio Upgrade' (a little less desirable perhaps).

In any of its generations, the Viper or SRT-10 won't be for everyone. It's extroverted, brutish and brazen in the finest American tradition. Rare, too. And for an alternative slice of V8 Americana, Corvettes are looking cheap too...

DODGE VIPER GTS
Engine: 7,990cc V10
Transmission: Six-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 450hp@5,200rpm
Torque (lb ft): 490@3,700rpm
MPG: 15.7 (apparently)
CO2: Err...
Year registered: 1998
Recorded miles: 39,000
Price new: NA
Yours for: £34,995

See the original ad here

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HeMightBeBanned

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