2003 Dodge Viper
Detroit serves up a new lucky number. 500.
The 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit played host to more than a few performance vehicles (Nissan’s Z Concept, BMW’s M3 Convertible, and Mazda’s RX-8 come to mind), but perhaps most surprising was the new “500/500/500” Viper from Dodge and the beleaguered American arm of DaimlerChrysler.
But let’s take a trip back shall we? Back to when Chrysler was still struggling, but was on the verge of a styling breakthrough that would carry them through the 90s. The year was 1989, the setting was again the Detroit Auto Show. In front of the usual room filled with auto “journalists,” Chrysler’s Advanced Styling Studio rolled out the stunning Dodge Viper RT/10 concept.
The reaction to this serpent on steroids was positive to say the least. According to Chrysler, Dodge received potential orders for the car before the show ended. What would become of the RT/10 is what many in this country consider to be America’s only true supercar.
More than a decade later, Chrysler is in trouble again. This time thanks in large to their German handlers. Despite the financial constraints, DC was still able to pump up America’s favorite snake for it’s first major redesign since the 1989 debut. The decision to show the new Viper at NAIAS may have been a move to build confidence in Chrysler because this vehicle is still more than a year away from hitting the streets. Therefore, many technical details have not been released, probably because they aren’t set in stone yet.
What we do know is that the 2003 Viper will come with an 8.3L (in other words, 505 inches of cubic displacement) V10 with a more-than welcome 500 bhp and 500 lbs-ft of torque. The chassis has been reworked for improved handling dynamics. The wheelbase has been stretched 2.6 inches while the overall car is close to a half-inch shorter. The overall curb weight for the new Viper is expected to be around 67 lbs. less than the current RT/10 roadster.
Exterior design is always an issue of discussion., and there’s no exception here. While the looks are familiarly Viper, they also bring to mind a certain Chevrolet sports car. Overall, it’s a crisp, clean design. But looks are subjective, so we’ll let you decide. Interior design is also a practice of evolution. Dodge seems to have fixed some things than needed to be fixed, but still remains true to it’s “Viperness.” It’s a nice design, but nothing really stands out.
This latest Viper appears more than able to hold onto it’s perch atop the American sports car arena, but does it have the qualities to compete in the world market? To tell you the truth, that really doesn’t matter to us because this car looks to be one hell of a ride.
Article Copyright 2001 Mike Cervantes.
Photos Copyright Daimler Chrysler.