2008 Dodge Viper Review
The Viper is an American supercar that first debuted in 1992. Built around a powerful V10 engine, the Viper puts performance above all else. The 1996 revision added about 50 hp, as well as improved braking. The GTS coupe also debuted that year. The current generation debuted in 2003, once again bumping the horsepower by 50, as well as adding a more aggressive look.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
If you’re looking for pure power, the Dodge Viper simply cannot be beat in this price range, or even near it. What it lacks in comfort and safety, it more than makes up for with its ten-cylinder, 600 horsepower engine that offers breakneck acceleration. It’s not a practical daily driver, but it will stomp just about any other stock car in a race.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems with the first generation included oil leaks, transmission noise, water leaks and failing speedometers. It was recalled four times. Problems with the current generation include poor shifting, convertible tops worn in spots unless protected, steering issues and difficult to close trunks. It was recalled twice in 2003 for chafed wiring and corroding switches. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Crash test scores are not available. Front airbags now feature multi-stage deployment and occupant-sensing capabilities. Sturdy anti-lock brakes are standard, but safety features are at a minimum in the Viper. Side airbags, traction control and stability control are not available.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Extremely powerful V10 engine
+ Hand built
+ Very cool exterior style
Cons
- Almost complete lack of safety features
- Impractical
- Spartan interior
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 costs over $6,000 less, and includes a CD changer, traction control, and side airbags, but it has a smaller engine with about 100 less hp. The Porsche 911 Carrera costs over $1,000 less, and adds a moonroof, navigation, traction control and side airbags. However, it only has a V6 with nearly 250 less hp than the Viper. The Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class 550 costs about $30,000 less, includes side airbags, traction control and an automatic, but has over 200 less hp.
What Others Are Saying:
“I don’t need to feel younger, my wife is my girlfriend, and I have no need to have men enviously stare at me. And after 40 years on this Earth, I’ve learned sometimes “practical” makes the most sense of all. Of course, that was before I drove this car, now I’m ready to throw practical out the window.” – The Detroit News
“The once-heavy clutch is now a Sachs twin-disc unit that reduces rotating inertia by 18 percent yet can handle the torque. When combined with the improved pedal-motion ratio, the result is pedal effort that seems almost too light for the Viper’s brutish character. The Tremec 6-speed transmission now features larger gears, improved synchronizers and shorter throws that result in lever movements that are better than those in the newly refined Corvettes. For racers, there are now provisions for adding an external transmission cooler. And that’s really what the Viper is meant for – racing.” – The Auto Channel
“Compared to a Porsche costing as much, the Viper still seems crude.” – Forbes
Read more about the 2008 Dodge Viper at the Dodge manufacturer web site.
