Dodge Viper 1996 - 2002
A coupe model called the GTS was also introduced in 1996. Dubbed "dubble bubble", the roof featured slightly raised sections above each seat to accommodate usage of helmets, a throwback to its intended purpose. Vipers can be seen participating often in drag racing, road racing and drifting. The GTS, like its predecessor, was chosen as the pace car for the 1996 Indianapolis 500.
Despite its similar outward appearance, the car was distinct enough to be considered a new generation model. Extensive modifications such as a reworked engine with higher power and less weight, an almost completely redesigned chassis that was made 60 lb (27 kg) lighter and 25% stiffer in torsional rigidity through meticulous computer analysis, a thoroughly redesigned suspension, and reduced braking distances; the 1996 to 2002 Viper GTS had a lighter (approximately 650 lb (290 kg)) 450 bhp (340 kW) engine, which could complete the quarter mile in 12.3 seconds, 0.3 seconds and 8 mph (13 km/h) faster than its predecessor, and increased top speed by 11 mph (18 km/h) or so. The revised suspension, stiffer chassis, and aerodynamic body raised lateral grip to 0.98 g, although other reports show the 1992 model with 1.0 g.
Along with the updated performance came the inclusion of some of the "luxuries" the car did without before. Dual front airbags were added to the vehicle's safety equipment list in 1996 on the GTS and 1997 on the R/T10 as mandated by the government. The car was also exported to Europe, where it was rebadged as a Chrysler, and sold under this marque from 1997 to 2003. European models had a detuned version of the Copperhead V10.
In the first six years of production almost 10,000 Vipers were sold. Minor evolutionary changes including new 18" diameter wheels and were introduced in the 1999 model. Subsequent versions featured light-weight hypereutectic pistons and an improved exhaust system, side exhaust having been dropped part way through production year 1996 for the RT/10, all production GTS Viper Coupes had rear exit exhaust. 1999 saw the introduction of the Cognac Connolly interior package. Continuing the refinements, ABS was introduced in 2001. In 2002, the end of second generation production was celebrated with the release of 360 commemorative "Final Edition" models. These models were painted red with white stripes, paying tribute to the famous race-winning Oreca cars.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodge_Viper
Despite its similar outward appearance, the car was distinct enough to be considered a new generation model. Extensive modifications such as a reworked engine with higher power and less weight, an almost completely redesigned chassis that was made 60 lb (27 kg) lighter and 25% stiffer in torsional rigidity through meticulous computer analysis, a thoroughly redesigned suspension, and reduced braking distances; the 1996 to 2002 Viper GTS had a lighter (approximately 650 lb (290 kg)) 450 bhp (340 kW) engine, which could complete the quarter mile in 12.3 seconds, 0.3 seconds and 8 mph (13 km/h) faster than its predecessor, and increased top speed by 11 mph (18 km/h) or so. The revised suspension, stiffer chassis, and aerodynamic body raised lateral grip to 0.98 g, although other reports show the 1992 model with 1.0 g.
Along with the updated performance came the inclusion of some of the "luxuries" the car did without before. Dual front airbags were added to the vehicle's safety equipment list in 1996 on the GTS and 1997 on the R/T10 as mandated by the government. The car was also exported to Europe, where it was rebadged as a Chrysler, and sold under this marque from 1997 to 2003. European models had a detuned version of the Copperhead V10.
In the first six years of production almost 10,000 Vipers were sold. Minor evolutionary changes including new 18" diameter wheels and were introduced in the 1999 model. Subsequent versions featured light-weight hypereutectic pistons and an improved exhaust system, side exhaust having been dropped part way through production year 1996 for the RT/10, all production GTS Viper Coupes had rear exit exhaust. 1999 saw the introduction of the Cognac Connolly interior package. Continuing the refinements, ABS was introduced in 2001. In 2002, the end of second generation production was celebrated with the release of 360 commemorative "Final Edition" models. These models were painted red with white stripes, paying tribute to the famous race-winning Oreca cars.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodge_Viper