Dodge Viper: 2003-2006, 3rd generation

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Chrysler’s Street and Racing Technology group gave a major redesign for the 3rd generation Dodge Viper. The snake faced new sharp and angular looking style, the initial convertible body and got new name – the Viper SRT-10. The new engine got a few more cubics – it was 505 now [8.3 liter] – and, of course, had more power. SRT-10 Roadster had 500 HP under the bonnet while the STR-10 Coupe managed 510 HP. The roadster did 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, top speed – 199 mph [310 km/h]. The performance improvements also influenced weight loss [about 230 kg], 6-speed T56 Tremec manual gearbox, better chassis rigidness. The chassis was planned to be more rigid and lighter, but the idea was refused because of the cost. Luckily, these chassis elements were at least used in Hennessey Viper Venom 1000 Twin Turbo model.

Mamba package  and SRT-10 Coupe

In 2004 Dodge introduced a limited [200 units] edition Mamba package that itself costed $30.000 and consisted of black interior, red stitching and trim. The 2006 Viper SRT-10 Coupe was introduced in 2005 in Detroit Show. Some body panels were shared from the convertible and it also inherited some styling from Competition Coupe. The Coupe model used the same chassis as convertible, so the general weight increased and effected acceleration, but handling and downforce was better. There were no 2007 models produced – Dodge continued the same 2006 model and prepared the new generation to come in 2008.

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