New York 2012: SRT Viper: Comments

[William Maley]

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William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

April 4, 2012

The wait is now over. All of the rumor, speculation, teases, Hot Wheels, video captures, and whatever now can end. SRT introduced the new Viper at the New York Auto Show today.

The design of the new Viper is evolutionary. Elements of the first and second generation Viper make their presence known on the new Viper, including the double-bubble roof, hood scoops, gaping side vents, and side exhaust.

Under the skin, the Viper has changed in some places. The clamshell hinged hood, roof, and hatch use carbon fiber. The doors are made out of aluminum. The structure, rumored at one time to be from the Alfa Romeo 8C, is the steel structure seen on the last Viper.

This being a Viper of course, there has to be a V10 engine under the hood. There is; an 8.4L V10 producing 640 HP and 600 lb-ft of torque. SRT says the V10 in the new Viper is 25 lbs lighter thanks to a new composite intake manifold, aluminum flywheel, and sodium-filled exhaust valves. The V10 engine will be hand built at Chrysler's Conner Avenue assembly plant.

The transmission will be a six-speed Tremec manual. The box the box has been reworked to reduce shift effort, increase accuracy, and improve acceleration. With launch control, SRT says the Viper can reach 60 MPH in the mid-three-second range, and deliver the quarter mile in the high 11s.

The new Viper is also equipped with for the first time, stability control. But don't fret, you can fully turn it off.

One of the other big changes the 2013 Viper has is a luxurious interior. Gone is the plastic and rubber interior of old Vipers, the new Viper is draped in leather and other quality materials. The seats are made by Sabelt, the company used by Ferrari for their seats. The instrument cluster is dominated with a LCD center tachometer that is customizable. The center console uses a 8.4 inch touchscreen that is available with Chrysler's UConnect infotainment system and a Harman Kardon audio system.

The Viper will come in two different models; base and GTS. The GTS comes with a new, driver-selectable two-mode suspension system, additional Sport and Track settings for the stability control, unique wheel designs, and standard Nappa leather throughout. SRT will offer Track package that adds ultra-lightweight wheels shod with Pirelli P Zero Corsa soft-compound tires, as well as lightweight two-piece brake rotors from StopTech.

The new Viper will launch in the fourth quarter of this year.

Press Release is on Page 2

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2013 SRT® Viper – The Return of the Snake

Street and Racing Technology (SRT®) brand’s flagship performance machine returns with more power and performance, superior craftsmanship, new technologies and creature comforts

• Two new models include SRT® Viper and SRT Viper GTS
  
• All-aluminum, mid-engine 8.4-liter V-10 delivers an estimated 640 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports car engine in the world
  
• Chassis enhancements bring 50 percent improvement in torsional stiffness
  
• Triple-digit weight reduction results in Viper best power-to-weight ratio
  
• Standard safety features include electronic multistage stability control, traction control and new 4-channel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
  
• All-new, innovative interior designs set new standards with premium materials, new technologies and superior craftsmanship
  
• All-new carbon-fiber and aluminum skin is sculpted for high-speed stability and a slippery .364 drag coefficient (Cd)
  
• Timeless exterior design incorporates iconic Viper styling cues with a contemporary execution
  

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Apr 4, 2012 - The all-new 2013 SRT® Viper was unveiled to the world today at the New York International Auto Show, marking its highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market.

The fifth generation of the iconic two-seat, American-built supercar has been deliberately evolved to incorporate superior craftsmanship, a host of new technologies and ergonomic improvements while respecting its visceral legacy of outright performance.

“After a gut-wrenching period of uncertainty, the Street and Racing Technology brand team is extremely proud that our hand-built in Detroit, flagship supercar is back and ready to take on the performance car world,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. “Beyond being the flagship for the new SRT brand, the launch of the 2013 Viper proves that we simply would not let the performance icon of the Chrysler Group die. Willed to live on by a very special group of performance enthusiasts inside the company and across Viper Nation, this SRT team under our new leadership was challenged to not just continue the legendary Viper, but to create a world-class supercar that would showcase the very best we have to offer.”

Two new models for any performance buyer

For the 2013 model year, two new models of the iconic supercar will be hand built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit – the home for Viper since 1995. Both SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS models offer new interior and exterior designs incorporating premium materials and new exterior surfaces with aerodynamically functional details that are beautifully integrated into the high-tech carbon fiber and aluminum skin. On the inside, designers and engineers strived to rethink all touch points; and upgrade all material appointments and technologies.

“The SRT Viper model is meant to offer a perfect blend of extreme performance and a deliberate preservation of what has become the iconic DNA of the Viper,” Gilles added. “We strove to deliver a supercar that continues to bring the driver as close as possible to the machine.”

The SRT Viper GTS builds on the DNA of the SRT Viper model with more technologically advanced solutions, like two-mode active suspension, to allow this world-class GTS to find new limits on the track while also opening up its envelope as a more premium and mature evolution of the classic, extreme performance formula. Designed and built with premium features and materials inside and out, the Viper GTS will compete with the best performance vehicles in the world with a wide range of creature comforts, advanced drivetrain and interior technologies.

“We’ve purposely evolved the iconic soul and raw performance formula that Viper has maintained over the years,” Gilles said. “Our returning customers will see the world-class levels of pride, quality and hand craftsmanship built into the 2013 Viper. With two price classes of the SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS, we have offerings for both the traditional core Viper customer and for the new customer who wants the same performance in a package with more technology and premium creature comforts.”

Awe-inspiring V-10 powertrain

At the heart and soul of the 2013 SRT Viper is the venerable, hand-assembled 8.4-liter all-aluminum, V-10 overhead-valve engine.

Improvements for 2013 include a new, ultra-high flow and lightweight composite intake manifold, high-strength forged pistons, sodium-filled exhaust valves, new catalysts to reduce back pressure and an aluminum flywheel that reduces reciprocating losses. More than 25 pounds has been shaved from the fully dressed engine.

Preliminary performance ratings for the SRT-engineered V-10 Viper are 640 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any naturally aspirated engine in the world.

The Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission has been improved with a shorter throw shifter, closer gear ratios and a final drive ratio that has been shortened to 3.55 from 3.07. The 2013 Viper models will be more engaging to drive and top speed is now achieved through 6th gear with maximum engine speed (redline) at 6,200 rpm.

Outstanding ride, handling and capability

Starting with a stiffer structure that provides 50 percent more torsional rigidity, the chassis of the 2013 SRT Viper benefits from numerous enhancements – many learned through racing efforts with Viper GTS-R and Competition Coupe models.

Major updates include the addition of a new aluminum “X” brace under the hood that ties the suspension pickup points to the magnesium cowl super casting and contributes to improved torsional rigidity and stiffness. A new aluminum impact beam at the front of the car contributes to overall mass savings and improved weight distribution while providing excellent crashworthiness.

Structurally, many areas of the chassis were reworked to take advantage of new materials, reduce thickness in some areas and reshape components for more structural rigidity in others. The result is an overall weight savings of approximately 100 pounds.

At the rear, the suspension has been re-engineered with the toe link moved forward of the axle for better tow control and dynamic stability.

A new, driver selectable two-mode suspension system, featuring Bilstein DampTronic Select shock absorbers with both street and track settings, is standard on GTS models.

For 2013, SRT Viper models ride on standard Pirelli P Zero, Z-rated tires with substantially improved overall performance, cold weather performance, enhanced overall grip and steering response on a variety of road surfaces while also broadening the performance envelope. An optional SRT Track Package features Pirelli P Zero Corsa, “soft”-tuned, "racing-type" compound tires that improve handling and precision further on the road or the race track.

For the first time, standard safety technologies such as electronic stability control and traction control help to maximize traction performance at virtually any speed and driving environment.

All 2013 Viper models will come with a steering-wheel-mounted launch control switch, allowing for optimal acceleration from standing starts.

Benchmark braking

Stopping performance for the 2013 SRT Viper is engineered to provide shorter stopping distances, better modulation, improved durability and balanced brake performance without fading under extreme conditions.

Four-piston Brembo brakes with fixed-aluminum calipers, and vented rotors with a diameter of 355 mm by 32 mm, are used at all four corners. Brake calipers are forged and weight optimized by fully machining all surfaces. The calipers are among the stiffest available with distortion from heat nearly eliminated even under the most demanding braking conditions.

The available SRT Track Package features lightweight and slotted two-piece rotors from StopTech.

New premium materials, craftsmanship and technologies

The all-new, driver-oriented interior cabins of the SRT Viper models have been totally revamped for 2013 with superior craftsmanship, premium material appointments and performance-oriented technologies.

For the first time, all major interior surfaces are sewn and wrapped with additional padding applied in comfort areas. On the Viper GTS model, all surfaces are fully leather skinned, and standard accent colors are applied to the seats, doors, center console and stitching.

Quality fit and finish across the lineup is showcased by triple-paint-finished Gun Metal appliqués on the cluster bezel, HVAC outlets, window switch bezels, shifter base, park brake bezel and the integrated passenger grab handle on the center console.

Standard high-performance racing seats from Sabelt feature a lightweight Kevlar/fiberglass shell created by a state-of-the-art resin transfer molding technology for mass reduction and long-term durability. Both driver and passenger enjoy improved comfort from thigh support and deep side bolsters designed to match the extreme lateral acceleration capabilities of the SRT Viper.

Seating position in the 2013 SRT Viper models is 20 mm lower for more room and enhanced performance-driving ergonomics. Seat travel is extended by 90 mm overall, which enables expanded seating options from a more rearward positioned bulkhead. For the first time, seat height can be adjusted by up to 40 mm – manually on the SRT model and power controlled on the GTS.

The new 2013 Viper is the most spacious model in the history of the nameplate. The floor pan and bulkhead have been extended approximately 90 mm to provide improved legroom and more rearward seat track movement.

Designed specifically for the 2013 SRT Viper, the new 7-inch, full-color, customizable instrument cluster display uses a full-time analog tachometer readout in the center to confirm the performance driving feedback philosophy of the Viper. Drivers have a wide range of custom and personal options such as an additional digital speedometer readout just below the tachometer. The vehicle information is clearly communicated with easy-to-understand icons. Intuitively controlled through a simple four-way steering-wheel control, the driver can configure the screens to display the information they desire, easily mixing and matching information.

Uconnect® Access provides new level of connectivity

The 2013 SRT Viper lineup includes the new, next generation Uconnect® Access in-vehicle connectivity system that provides drivers with access to more information, emergency services, more entertainment and improved graphics.

Viper customers can choose between two Uconnect Media Centers, RA3 and RA4, which provide a range of new features and multiple ways to control media in the vehicle. The system includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen along with a set of hard keys for commonly used functions, including traditional knobs for tuning the radio bands and radio volume. Touchscreen buttons along the bottom of the screen allow drivers to easily access the radio, climate controls, navigation, phone, and new, select, certified applications. The new, highly sculpted steering wheel has a host of finger-tip mounted controls for audio, Uconnect, cruise control (first application) and launch control.

SiriusXM Travel Link also is available with Uconnect, providing premium data services and information to make every trip more efficient. SiriusXM Traffic works with the vehicle’s navigation system to display traffic speed and traffic flow information along with accident information to assist drivers in routing around congested areas. An expanded SiriusXM channel lineup includes exclusive programming, including the new SiriusXM Latino channels, an auto industry first.

A range of Harman Kardon® surround-sound systems are available across the SRT Viper lineup that feature the latest in audio system technology. All Harman Kardon audio systems include a high-voltage class D amplifier with tracking power supply and up to 11 channels of amplification. The Harman Kardon system with exclusive Logic 7 surround-sound processing is available in the Viper GTS model with a total of 18-speakers, including four subwoofers located behind the seats. All Harman Kardon systems in the 2013 SRT Viper lineup include high-performance, high-efficiency GreenEdge technology loudspeakers that are extremely light and include rare earth magnets. The magnets inside each speaker ensure efficient speaker operation and enhanced performance. The audio systems operate on 32 volts – so the new and improved sound system achieves more than double the acoustic power of the current system.

Refined evolution of SRT’s hallmark – aggressive and functional exterior designs

The all-new, timeless exterior design blends contemporary execution with evolutionary refinement.

All-new carbon-fiber hood, roof, decklid and aluminum door panels are firsts for SRT Viper models resulting in significant weight reduction, improved high-speed stability and a slippery .364 drag coefficient.

The forward-hinged hood carries the redesigned Viper badge – aptly named “Stryker” by the Viper Club of America – positioned in the center; and offers unobtrusive access to several service points and the SRT-engineered V-10 powerplant.

The classical low-stance and the extreme cab rearward proportions that have become the unmistakable silhouette of the iconic supercar, return on the 2013 SRT Viper models along with the dramatic fender “gills” – another traditional Viper design cue that helps to extract heat from the engine compartment.

The 2013 Viper models feature a contemporary take on the traditional “double-bubble” roof configuration that maximizes headroom for the driver and passenger while maintaining a low frontal area – allowing additional room for helmets during recreational competitive driving.

Dual-function, bi-xenon projector headlamps are tightly packaged with white light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lamps and LED turn signals in a sinister “snake eye” configuration.

Functional “blisters” incorporated into the 70 mm projector headlamp lenses create a three-dimensional view that gives Viper a distinctive glare.

The lower-front grille is purposefully designed as an evolution of the traditional Viper low-profile cooling opening configuration and discretely carries a refined V-shape structure.

The exhaust system continues to exit forward of the rear wheels and now carries further refinement with cast aluminum, sill-mounted exhaust bezels.

For the first time, the 2013 SRT Viper models carry LED taillamps that integrate stop-and-turn illumination in one element. Snakeskin texture in the lens carries the surface work seen in the gills and hood textures. With dark-masked lenses, the horizontal lamps appear dark until the LED elements fire. Each lamp carries 50 LEDs that provide a unified “crystallized” illumination effect.

The five-spoke, forged-aluminum “Rattler” wheel design on the 2013 Viper model is available with fully polished (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted low-gloss black finishes.

The Viper GTS has a split six-spoke forged-aluminum “Venom” wheel design with three available finishes, including polished face with graphite-painted pockets (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted low-gloss black.

Available SRT Track Package wheels are ultra-lightweight, track-ready wheels in Hyper Black or matte black finishes.

About SRT

The Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand uses a successful product development formula featuring five proven hallmarks: awe-inspiring powertrains; outstanding ride, handling and capability; benchmark braking; aggressive and functional exteriors and race-inspired and high-performance interiors to remain true to its performance roots.

The expansion of the SRT vehicle lineup in the 2012 model year features four new products that are world-class performance contenders and bring the latest in safety technologies and creature comforts. These products include the Chrysler 300 SRT8®, Dodge Challenger SRT8 392, Dodge Charger SRT8 and Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8.

Making its highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market in late 2012 is the new 2013 SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS. The SRT flagship performance machines arrive with more power and performance, superior craftsmanship, new technologies and creature comforts.

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[Robert Hall]

Interesting...nice evolution of the current Viper design. A couple exterior details I don't care for--the faux quarter window or scoop on the c-pillar behind the side window looks out of place, and the carbon fiber taillight surround is tasteless...

[Drew Dowdell]

Most of the body is carbon fiber....they let a little of it show through the paint.

[Robert Hall]

Most of the body is carbon fiber....they let a little of it show through the paint.

I figured that...I just have an aversion to the appearance of CF..seeing it up close in person gives me the dry heaves...

Edited April 4, 2012 by Cubical-aka-Moltar

[regfootball]

still has that kit car look. the upgrades are impressive tho. Corvette will really need to be a notch above this hodgepodge when it comes out.

[loki]

has a mix of american and european feel from the front picture.

[yougojay]

This is the most god awful looking waste of natural resources I have ever seen - we laugh out loud at these (along with Hummers) whenever we see them on the road. No improvement over all the other ugly looking ones out there -

[Delta Force79]

I love it, I think it's a great evolution of the both past Vipers, but especially the first gen. The only thing I feel needs a little extra flair is the headlights which don't seem as aggressive as they could be given how angry the Charger looks. That is my only minor complaint about it, I love the interior, I'd take this over a 'Vette without a second thought.

[Intrepidation]

This is the most god awful looking waste of natural resources I have ever seen - we laugh out loud at these (along with Hummers) whenever we see them on the road. No improvement over all the other ugly looking ones out there -

You must have a sad, miserable life if you can't find better use of of your time.

[Intrepidation]

I love it! It's got the feel of the original GTS, but even more taut and menacing. I love the long low hood and low nose. Rare to find that in today's pedestrian-friendly cars with 4 foot high flat noses. I like the restrained use of exposed carbon fiber on the exterior.

The interior is such a huge leap forward compared to the old car. I wouldn't call it warm and inviting, but certainly cozy and intimate with a much more modern, cohesive design and lots of upgraded materials as well as nice detailing. I especially like the detailing of the handle and the HVAC vents.

Best of all perhaps, is the V10, which true to form, remains naturally aspirated, and is now the most torque-rich N/A engine in the world.

[fullmoon97]

i LOVE this car. from the outside headlights grill tail lights. the hits of carbon fiber here and there. it is a true sports car. the interior is EXACTLY what i was hoping for when i said they should take a lesson from Ferrari. the 2 tone interior with the sporty accents. the perfect evolution from the 2nd gen. its a very mean and intimidating looking car. and with the massive V-10 that's going in its gonna scream.

[Turbojett]

I think it's wonderful. not a thing on it i would change. I'm amazed they brought back the front-hinged clamshell hood, too. Overall, I must say I'm impressed.

[regfootball]

interior looks pretty cool.

[z28luvr01]

Gorgeous! In the front you can definitely see the Italian influence. Interior is amazing. This raises the bar big time for the C7.

[yougojay]

This is the most god awful looking waste of natural resources I have ever seen - we laugh out loud at these (along with Hummers) whenever we see them on the road. No improvement over all the other ugly looking ones out there -

You must have a sad, miserable life if you can't find better use of of your time.

No I Just Have Good Taste -

[fullmoon97]

Dodgefan, on , said:

yougojay, on , said:

This is the most god awful looking waste of natural resources I have ever seen - we laugh out loud at these (along with Hummers) whenever we see them on the road. No improvement over all the other ugly looking ones out there -

You must have a sad, miserable life if you can't find better use of of your time.

No I Just Have Good Taste -

if you laugh at a viper you obviously do not. why not laugh at something that is actually ugly like a Nissan Cube.

[Drew Dowdell]

I love it! It's got the feel of the original GTS, but even more taut and menacing. I love the long low hood and low nose. Rare to find that in today's pedestrian-friendly cars with 4 foot high flat noses. I like the restrained use of exposed carbon fiber on the exterior.

The interior is such a huge leap forward compared to the old car. I wouldn't call it warm and inviting, but certainly cozy and intimate with a much more modern, cohesive design and lots of upgraded materials as well as nice detailing. I especially like the detailing of the handle and the HVAC vents.

Best of all perhaps, is the V10, which true to form, remains naturally aspirated, and is now the most torque-rich N/A engine in the world.

They drove two of them on stage, the Viper plus the racing Viper. both sounded insane!

[Intrepidation]

This is the most god awful looking waste of natural resources I have ever seen - we laugh out loud at these (along with Hummers) whenever we see them on the road. No improvement over all the other ugly looking ones out there -

You must have a sad, miserable life if you can't find better use of of your time.

No I Just Have Good Taste -

That's the funniest thing I've heard all day. You have good taste like a dog turd has a good understanding of the Higgs boson.

[yougojay]

whatever...

[G. David Felt]

Looking at all the pictures, the new viper has grown on me. I clearly see the Viper DNA is there, the quality of the interior is a throw down to Corvette and any other High End 100,000 dollar performance car. The nicest I have ever seen on the Viper.

The Exterior I wish they had pushed the envelope more in being truly Viper, I feel they cross bred the Viper with a Ferrari which I know is truly subjective as some love Ferrari and other do not. I would rather have seen it cross bred with a Lambo.

[fullmoon97]

i love the cross breeding that was done. it went Italian without getting rid of its american roots. it kept and boosted its power. it has alot of tech options to help with handling. it will be a fantastic car.

[G. David Felt]

i love the cross breeding that was done. it went Italian without getting rid of its american roots. it kept and boosted its power. it has alot of tech options to help with handling. it will be a fantastic car.

I am not saying it will not be a fantastic car, but where you love the style of Ferrari, I do not like it at all. I think Lambo is a far better style. VIPERS instill fear in others, This version of the VIPER should use all the technology to build a world class driving car, but keep the style to one that instills fear in others by saying I am not gonna mess with him. This current style is nice, but it does not instill fear. It does not say "Don't Mess with Me!"

I get this I can beat most cars and I have no problem racing, but you might win.

IMO

[SAmadei]

Problem is that its more Ferrari than Italian. Ferraris don't do it for me. If I wanted Italian, I'd get a Lambo.

[Robert Hall]

I can see a little Ferrari in the style, which makes sense given the family relationship. I wouldn't expect any Lambo as that is a VW brand.. Other than the Miura, I've never really cared for Lambo styling, esp. compared to Ferrari.

Edited April 6, 2012 by Cubical-aka-Moltar

[GMTruckGuy74]

It's not bad, though really not my cup of tea (I was more excited about the debut of the '13 Ram than I was for the Viper). I will say I think they didn't go far enough to differentiate it from the last Viper, but I can see where it went new. I would be just as disappointed with thenext Corvette if it kept most of the last generation in its design.

[Drew Dowdell]

ok, enough with the back and forth at each other, back and forth over the car....

i love the cross breeding that was done. it went Italian without getting rid of its american roots. it kept and boosted its power. it has alot of tech options to help with handling. it will be a fantastic car.

I am not saying it will not be a fantastic car, but where you love the style of Ferrari, I do not like it at all. I think Lambo is a far better style. VIPERS instill fear in others, This version of the VIPER should use all the technology to build a world class driving car, but keep the style to one that instills fear in others by saying I am not gonna mess with him. This current style is nice, but it does not instill fear. It does not say "Don't Mess with Me!"

I get this I can beat most cars and I have no problem racing, but you might win.

IMO

That's because you can't hear it.

[G. David Felt]

ok, enough with the back and forth at each other, back and forth over the car....

i love the cross breeding that was done. it went Italian without getting rid of its american roots. it kept and boosted its power. it has alot of tech options to help with handling. it will be a fantastic car.

I am not saying it will not be a fantastic car, but where you love the style of Ferrari, I do not like it at all. I think Lambo is a far better style. VIPERS instill fear in others, This version of the VIPER should use all the technology to build a world class driving car, but keep the style to one that instills fear in others by saying I am not gonna mess with him. This current style is nice, but it does not instill fear. It does not say "Don't Mess with Me!"

I get this I can beat most cars and I have no problem racing, but you might win.

IMO

That's because you can't hear it.

Hearing has nothing to do with it, I am sure every one of us once we hear the burble of that Viper Motor will love the sound and feel the energy course through our vains.

Yet the Style is subjective to a persons likes and my use of the Lambo is not for crossbreeding, but as an example of how they should have pushed the body design further.

It seems to me they were pushing the envelop and then some freaking Honda jumped in bed and blanded it down to the level of a Ferrari.

[ocnblu]

Nicer interior, for sure. Not much noticeably new on the exterior except for the Euro headlights, it's still like a giant dick waving in yer face, which is fine for a Viper, just sayin'. Excellent motor, sounds like.

I'm surprised at myself. I am more impressed with the new sedans shown at NY than I am with the Ram and Viper.

[§carlet §wordfish]

This is more aggressive than any Viper has ever looked. I don't get where you people see Ferrari in this at all. It's nothing but Viper from stem to stern.

[Intrepidation]

This is more aggressive than any Viper has ever looked. I don't get where you people see Ferrari in this at all. It's nothing but Viper from stem to stern.

[Intrepidation]

Nicer interior, for sure. Not much noticeably new on the exterior except for the Euro headlights, it's still like a giant dick waving in yer face, which is fine for a Viper, just sayin'. Excellent motor, sounds like.

I'm surprised at myself. I am more impressed with the new sedans shown at NY than I am with the Ram and Viper.

That's too bad you feel that way, considering this marks the return of an icon, which is no better than ever, featuring one of the most powerful naturally aspirated engine in the world.

Ram debuts segment first technologies like the 8-speed automatic for both the V6 and V8, as well as a lightened and strengthened frame, award winning infotainment system, in truck that is 146 pounds lighter than the old one. This, plus improved aerodynamics an air suspension make for a truck that already has the best ride and handling of any half ton now makes 20% better fuel economy without any batteries or electric motors, something you of all people should appreciate.

To each their own.

[Robert Hall]

The Viper has never really been my thing, but I do think the new one looks great...can't wait to read the road tests..

[ocnblu]

The current Ram has always been nice. The Viper has always been off my radar, I am more a Corvette guy. The Chevy Impala hasn't been this stylish and cool since 1996. It is much more of a leap forward than either of the DODGES (forget this Ram and SRT crap). Give me a break.

[Turbojett]

This is more aggressive than any Viper has ever looked. I don't get where you people see Ferrari in this at all. It's nothing but Viper from stem to stern.

EXACTLY.

I don't see any Ferrari or Alfa or Maserati in it anywhere.

I look at it and I see more of the original GTS coupe than anything else:

Edited April 8, 2012 by Turbojett

[Blake Noble]

Honestly, I don't see anything on the new Viper that jumps out at me and screams "Italian" other than the paint, maybe. I guess if I squint really hard at the grille my thoughts might eventually turn to the grille out of a Ferrari 458, but like Swordfish said, it's an all-American Viper end to end and that's a very good thing.

This is the most god awful looking waste of natural resources I have ever seen - we laugh out loud at these (along with Hummers) whenever we see them on the road. No improvement over all the other ugly looking ones out there -

You must have a sad, miserable life if you can't find better use of of your time.

No I Just Have Good Taste -

I can't say much else here that hasn't already been said, but I do have one question: What on Earth do you consider to be a car in good taste?

Edited April 8, 2012 by black-knight

[fullmoon97]

the only place i really see Italian is the interior. the places on the outside that i can kind of see Italian are the CF but that's not a big deal, and the colored brakes. both of those are so small they aren't worth saying. all Italian influence i see is on the interior. and that's mostly because everything is wrapped in the same leather that Ferrari uses. but yes it is still 100% american muscle. because it wasn't Ferrari themselves who designed the interior. it was SRT asking people what they wanted.

[Northstar]

Wow, GM is going to have its work cut out for it in order to beat this, even with the new ZR1.

The seats in that blow anything the Corvette has ever offered out of the water. If GM doesn't design it's own sporty seats for the C7, they better be contacting Recaro.

[yougojay]

This is the most god awful looking waste of natural resources I have ever seen - we laugh out loud at these (along with Hummers) whenever we see them on the road. No improvement over all the other ugly looking ones out there -

I agree - these are hideously fugly - and the people who drive them are crack.

[Turbojett]

ooooookay. and anyway...

[Intrepidation]

This is the most god awful looking waste of natural resources I have ever seen - we laugh out loud at these (along with Hummers) whenever we see them on the road. No improvement over all the other ugly looking ones out there -

I agree - these are hideously fugly - and the people who drive them are crack.

You're so much in the minority you've resorted to talking to yourself. That's almost as funny as it is pathetic.

[G. David Felt]

This is the most god awful looking waste of natural resources I have ever seen - we laugh out loud at these (along with Hummers) whenever we see them on the road. No improvement over all the other ugly looking ones out there -

I agree - these are hideously fugly - and the people who drive them are crack.

Should someone call the funny farm and let them know one of their animals wandered off?