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2008 SRT10 Viper to Pack 600 hp |
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Thursday, 28 December 2006
Written by Tim Beggs
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While the 2009 Corvette SS "Blue Devil" has received attention lately about how powerful it will be, Dodge isn't about to let this claim go without a rebuttal. In the summer of 2007, Dodge plans to release its latest powerhouse, the 2008 SRT10 Viper. It is awesome to see the changes that are in store for power-hungry Mopar enthusiasts. Updated looks, powerplant, and performance are all taken into fine consideration with this venomous beast of a sports car.
For starters, Dodge has changed the Viper's hood to have a larger scoop as well as six new heat-extracting louvers to keep the powerplant cool under demand. In June of 2006, several auto spies were able to capture this concept hood on some test Vipers, so it doesn't come as a complete surprise. The extra cooling capacity is quite necessary, as the aluminum block V10 engine has a slight increased bore (1 mm) to result in an increased displacement from 8.3 to 8.4 liters. New cylinder heads, larger intake & exhaust valves, and a variable exhaust timing system (a first for the Viper) all compile into a 600 hp package (a 90 hp increase over the prior model). Torque output increases by 25 lb-ft to twist the tools with a rating of 560 lb-ft. These updates allow the forthcoming SRT10 Viper to reach 60 mph from a stop in less than 4 seconds and the sprint to 100 mph within 12 seconds.
Other accompanying modifications to the refreshed Viper model include a twin-disc clutch system, an updated Tremec T56 six-speed transmission, a short-throw shifter, and a new GKN Visco-Lok limited-slip differential to best apply all the power to the ground. This stunning new 2008 Viper is set to go on sale in the summer of 2007, carrying a price tag slightly above the current model's $86,995--well beneath the Corvette SS's estimated MSRP in the six-figure range. The race is on between these two on how to determine who is going to provide the biggest bang for the smallest buck. Dodge has beaten Chevrolet to the punch this round, but will the 600 hp figure and accompanying updates be enough to keep the lead?
If we hear more on this monster, rest assured that RPM Planets will keep you posted.
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