Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe (2006)
By: Juan G. Robbin
“One Sensational Snake”
Viper: According to Webster’s Dictionary, is a group of venomous snakes that can be aggressive upon provocation. The Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe is very much like its snake namesake.
This super car is Dodge’s king of the hill! Its design is unique and screams for attention anywhere you go. With 505 HP from a huge 8.3 liter V10 engine, this is modern American muscle at its best. The side-pipe exhaust rumbles under acceleration, burbles when you release the throttle and simply explodes into a cacophony of V10 engine sounds under full acceleration. Getting in is a bit difficult, especially due to the extra large side sills that house the side-exhausts. Once in though, you are in a sport seat that holds you in. Pedals work best for smaller feet, they are close together and can be uncomfortable if you have big feet or wide shoes. Gears are vague but easy to get used to. Steering is tight, direct and comfortable. The interior is functional and simple, with no spare room inside; trunk is reached via a glass hatch in the back. This is a no-compromises sports car!
We liked the clutch; its firmness and feel are perfect. Just as you release it the power comes on instantly and directly. So you want performance? Nail the throttle to the floor and watch this snake go! Make sure you are going straight and on dry pavement though. Shifting does take some effort to do it precisely. We did notice that unless shifting at high RPM’s, our test car had a difficult 2nd gear. When you drive a car with so much power you really feel different. Passing, accelerating and taking corners become a unique sensation altogether.
The Viper SRT10 is a true American muscle car: It is fast, harsh, rough, tight, powerful, and loud; Its perfect!
The Essentials
MSRP: $83,145.00 (As tested) $90,890.00
Fuel consumption (observed): 12.5 MPG
Engine: 8.3 liter, V10, 505 HP
Popular options: Polished 20” wheels, dual black painted stripes
Visit: www.dodge.com