Hubbry Logo
search
logo
147336

Dodge Viper (SR II)

logo
Community Hub0 Subscribers
Write something...
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
See all
Dodge Viper (SR II)

The Dodge Viper (SR II) is the second-generation Dodge Viper sports car, manufactured by American automobile manufacturer Dodge. Two versions of the Viper were produced during the second generation. The RT/10, which had many parts carried over from the previous generation during the initial year of production and a new coupe named the GTS which was introduced in mid-1996.

The 1996 model year marked as the start of production for the second-generation Viper, codenamed the SR II. The car was essentially an updated version of the first-generation Viper, since most of its parts were carried over to this generation.

The second-generation RT/10 received minor changes, the biggest change being the exhaust position. The side-exiting exhaust pipes were now enclosed and relocated to exit the rear of the vehicle via a single muffler, exiting through two large centrally-positioned tail pipes. This reduced back pressure which increased the power to 415 hp (309 kW; 421 PS) and the torque to 488 lb⋅ft (662 N⋅m). A removable hardtop was now available along with a sliding glass window. A few steel suspension components were replaced by aluminum, which resulted in 27 kg (60 lb) of weight reduction.

In late 1996, a new model of the Viper was introduced. Known as the GTS, the car was a coupé version of the RT/10 and offered more power than the RT/10 upon release. Dubbed the “double bubble”, the roof of the car featured slightly raised sections over the driver and passenger seats that looked like bubbles to accommodate additional head room for helmets during track days. This look was retained for all of the subsequent generations of Viper coupes following the SR II. Over 90% of the GTS contained new parts compared to the RT/10 despite similar looks, and the 8.0-liter V10 engine received a power increase, with the engine now producing a maximum power output of 450 hp (336 kW; 456 PS). The GTS was also the first Viper to receive airbags.

In 1997 and 1998 model years the Viper would continue to receive minor updates. The GTS would get second-generation airbags, revised exhaust manifolds, and a revised camshaft for 1997, and the RT/10 would gain a power increase up to 450 hp (336 kW; 456 PS) for 1998.

Lighter hypereutectic pistons and factory frame improvements were made for the Viper in 2000, as well as another camshaft revision. The lighter pistons, being of cast construction, are not able to safely withstand high levels of forced induction compared to the earlier forged pistons. This difference has led to enthusiasts sometimes referring to the 2000-02 model years as "creampuff cars".

In 2001, the Viper was equipped with an anti-lock braking system as well as revised front brakes.

Colors would vary throughout the second generation. Dodge would offer three or four colors per model year. Some colors such as steel gray were only offered for one model year (MY2000) while other colors such as red were offered during the entire second generation. Interior colors and wheel options would also vary throughout the second generation. The 1999 model year introduced the Connolly "Cognac" interior option. The cobalt blue color of the Dodge Viper GTS seen in the Viper (TV series) was exclusively available to the series.

See all
User Avatar
No comments yet.