2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Rocks 600 Ponies

DETROIT — You just knew that with the arrival of the Ford Shelby GT500 and rumors of Chevrolet's "Blue Devil" Corvette, Dodge wasn't about to let the Viper slip into limbo.

So, for model-year 2008, the Viper SRT10 coupe and roadster get a significant bump in output to go with some modest styling tweaks.

With engineering assistance from Ricardo and McLaren, the Viper's V10 engine has been extensively reworked and the displacement bumped from 8.3 to 8.4 liters. The engine now makes 600 horsepower — an increase of 90 hp over last year — and 560 pound-feet of torque.

The '08 Viper is fitted with the latest-generation Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual gearbox. Dodge says 0-60 acceleration is shaved to less than 4 seconds, with 0-100-0 acceleration and braking accomplished in an astonishing 12 seconds.

In addition to massive Brembo brakes and a new GKN Visco-Lok speed-sensing, limited-slip differential, the '08 Viper rides on Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires — 18s in front, 19s in the rear. Three different polished, forged-aluminum wheels are available, including a new Razor five-spoke design.

Dodge has limited the exterior changes to a new hood with a larger scoop and louvers to improve airflow. There are several new exterior and interior color schemes.

The '08 Viper coupe and roadster go on sale next summer.

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