Muscle Cars

2008 Dodge Viper SRT-10 Coupe

Dodge Viper SRT-10 is a sports car built by Dodge. It is powered by a V10 engine. Production of the two-seat sports car began in 1991, then went through a major redesign in 2003, with its name changed to Dodge Viper SRT-10.

The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT-10 boasts more of what performance aficionados crave: kick-in-the-pants, throw-back-in-the-seat power, combined with benchmark braking, world-class ride and handling, a race-inspired interior and bold exterior styling. While every SRT vehicle offers balanced, overall performance, the heart and soul of the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT-10 is its standout powertrain. For 2008, SRT ups the ante with a new, 8.4-liter aluminum V-10 engine that produces an astounding 600 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. of torque.

Although the optional interior schemes and available graphite or “light arc” dash panel accents dress things up considerably this year, the cockpit is still rather blasé for a car whose price comes very close to $90K. The Viper just goes about its business, though, with a large center-mounted tachometer that sits next to a 220 mph speedometer. Additional gauges reside between the speedometer and center console, angled toward the driver. Pedals, which are power-adjustable, are placed directly in front of the driver, and there’s also a dead pedal. Seat comfort is surprisingly good and the controls are user-friendly; there’s even a real center console storage compartment (but no cupholders, as specifically requested by Viper owners). The audio system has a fully integrated head unit, complete with an in-dash six-CD changer. Adding to the racecar feel is a red starter button that’s used to fire the beast’s V10 engine. A word of warning: The Viper’s signature side exhaust pipes make the side sills dangerously hot. Expect to occasionally singe your calves.

The Viper remains, essentially, a toy rather than an everyday driver—but it’s a mighty fine, explosively fast toy, especially on the track.

Apparently Dodge has decided that 600 horsepower and insanely aggressive styling are features enough for the 2008 Dodge Viper, because the Dodge Viper offers little else in the way of creature comforts and luxuries.