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The story of the Dodge Viper

103K views 173 replies 5 participants last post by  rickaren 
#1 ·
There's nothing practical about the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10.

Nope, not a thing.

It's too expensive, too powerful and too beautiful to be mistaken for anything other than a gorgeous machine crushing practicality faster than a lightening bug on its windshield.

Designed and tested by Chrysler LLC's Street and Racing Technology team -- a group of gearheads who sit around racetracks and dream up ways to make race cars street-legal -- the Viper SRT10 lives up to its scaly reputation of brute force racer and midlife crisis antidote.





LINK:
http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071010/OPINION03/710100331/1148/AUTO01
 
#27 ·
More Vipers than Volts?

There could be more new Dodge Vipers on the road than Chevrolet Volts

April 08, 2010,



One is a luxury roadster used by a small percentage of car enthusiasts and the wealthy. The other is a midsize sedan targeted toward everyone.

So, which one will you most likely see on the roads in 2010? The luxury roadster -- at least for now.

Chrysler is planning to produce 50 Dodge Viper SRT10 Final Edition models. The Detroit News reports that although this is tentatively the last year for the Viper mark, a decision on whether to revive the model is still on the table.

Fifty is a small number, but still way more than how many Chevrolet Volts you might see. The Detroit Free Press reports that although 300 preproduction Volts will be assembled in Hamtramck, actual production won't begin until November.

The Viper has a base price of around $91,000 (as reported last year, the author of this post is not in that market) while the Volt starts around $40K.

LINK: There could be more new Dodge Vipers on the road than Chevrolet Volts | - MLive.com
 
#28 ·
Kuno Wittmer Dominates in World Challenge at Long Beach



April 19, 2010

Woodhouse Performance Dodge driver Kuno Wittmer dominated Sunday as he drove his No. 13 Dodge Viper to a flag-to-flag win in the 29-lap Toyo Tires World Challenge race, part of the Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend.

With the win, the Montreal native moves into second place in the 2010 season standings, just one point behind the GT class leader.

In early morning qualifying Sunday, Wittmer set a new track record of 1:24.791 (83.379 mph) around the famed 11-turn, 1.968 mile Long Beach street course to earn his first-ever pole position in World Challenge GT class. He previously earned two pole positions in Touring Car class.

“This is a great win for the Woodhouse Performance team and for Dodge Motorsports,” Wittmer said. “We had a large contingent of Dodge fans, owners and Dodge management here this weekend, so to get their support and win from the pole is simply outstanding. I did have to concentrate on conserving the tires a bit at the end, but the car was fantastic today.”

Wittmer has no illusions about the fierce competition that awaits him this season.

“There are still six weekends left. That’s a lot of racing,” he said. “I know that Dino and the GMG team are going to definitely be doing a lot of testing and work. Let’s not forget about the Volvos either. This is sports car wars, man!”

Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Car Brand, was impressed with the win.

“I’m excited and proud to see the Woodhouse Performance team put on such a great performance today at Long Beach,” Gilles said. “Kuno was amazing in the car all weekend and this team has worked extremely hard and come a long way in a very short period of time. Bob Woodhouse has meant a lot to World Challenge racing and Dodge over the years, so this win says a lot about where this team is headed and what they’re capable of doing on the track.”

Fans can watch a replay of the Viper's domination at the Long Beach race on Saturday, May 1, starting at 4:30 p.m. EDT on Versus. The next World Challenge Series event is set for May 21-23 at the Mosport International Speedway.
 
#29 ·
Dodge Announces “Challenger Chase to Win” Sweepstakes

Enter to win a 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T with HEMI® engine and custom exterior graphics

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Apr 23, 2010 -

Dodge race fans now have the chance to win a one-of-kind Dodge Challenger R/T in the brand’s “Challenger Chase To Win” sweepstakes. At the end of this year’s NASCAR racing season, one lucky fan will drive away with a custom Challenger R/T to commemorate the Challenger’s debut in the 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series.

With a retail value of close to $40,000, the Grand Prize 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T is finished in a black-and-orange color graphic scheme that resembles Penske Racing driver Justin Allgaier’s No. 12 Verizon Wireless Dodge which he will race in the NASCAR Nationwide Series beginning on July 2, 2010 at Daytona International Speedway.

“We’re excited to offer one lucky winner a Dodge Challenger R/T that is truly one of a kind,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO - Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Following the on-track debut of the Dodge Challenger this summer, seeing a custom #12 Penske Racing Challenger on the street is going to be very cool.”

Contestants are invited to enter the “Challenger Chase to Win” sweepstakes online at Dodge Motorsports or in person by visiting the Dodge Motorsports display areas at various 2010 NASCAR events around the country including:

* Talladega Superspeedway, Talladega, Ala.: 4/23–4/25
* Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, Fla.: 7/1–7/3
* Richmond International Raceway, Richmond, Va.: 9/10– 9/11
* Kansas Speedway, Kansas City, Kan.: 10/1–10/3
* Talladega Superspeedway, Talladega, Ala.: 10/29–10/31
* Phoenix International Raceway, Avondale, Ariz.: 11/12–11/14

The Dodge Challenger R/T delights driving enthusiasts across several generations by merging the best American muscle-car characteristics – unmistakable design, world-class handling, a powerful HEMI® engine and the newest technology. With its 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine that produces 376 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque, the Challenger R/T makes it from zero to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds.

Each participant may enter one time, regardless of method of entry. The lucky winner of the custom-painted Dodge Challenger R/T will be selected randomly on or around Dec. 14, 2010, from all eligible entries received. The winner will be notified by e-mail, mail or phone.

The Challenger Chase To Win sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia who are licensed drivers and at least 18 years old at the time of entry.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES (D.C.) LICENSED DRIVERS, 18 YEARS AND OLDER. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Sweepstakes ends 11/30/10. For Official Rules, prize description and odds disclosure, visit Dodge Motorsports. Sponsor: Chrysler Group LLC, 1000 Chrysler Drive, Auburn Hills, MI 48386.

About Dodge
Dodge is a full line of cars, SUVs and MPVs that are agile, daring, sensible and inventive. The product line includes the Dodge Caliber, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey, Dodge Nitro and Dodge Viper SRT10.

Dodge introduced two new vehicles for the 2009 model year: the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey, the brand’s first crossover vehicle and the 2009 Dodge Challenger, a modern-day American muscle car. Dodge also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the minivan during the 2009 model year. With more than 65 minivan-firsts introduced since 1983 and more than 12 million Dodge and Chrysler minivans sold, Chrysler Group LLC has solidified its leadership in the segment. J.D. Power and Associates further acknowledged this leadership by naming the Dodge Grand Caravan the Most Dependable Van for 2009. The 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan continues to set the mark in the minivan segment with unsurpassed fuel economy of 17 city / 25 highway mpg and minivan-first innovations including the segment’s only Stow ‘n Go® and Swivel ‘n Go® seating and storage systems. The 2010 Dodge Journey and 2010 Dodge Avenger (with ESC) also earned the 2009 Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.


 
#30 ·


PentastarVideo — June 14, 2010 — Dodge Viper ACR-X gets outfitted for the track.
 
#31 ·
TURN THE SOUND UP!!!



The 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X piloted by Dodge Motorsports driver Kuno Wittmer captured an impressive class victory today at the Ultimate Track Car Challenge presented by Grassroots Motorsports magazine. For much more information from today's event, go to www.grasrootsmotorsports.com
 
#32 ·
2012 Dodge Viper Shown to Dealers

2012 Dodge Viper Shown to Dealers
Sep 15, 2010


* Chrysler will introduce 17 new or redesigned models over the next two years.
* A 2012 Dodge Viper is included in that count.

* Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne made that announcement at a Chrysler dealer meeting.


ORLANDO, Florida — There will be a new Dodge Viper after all.

At a meeting here of Chrysler's U.S. dealers, CEO Sergio Marchionne, who also heads Italian automaker Fiat, said Chrysler will introduce 17 new or redesigned models over the next two years, including a replacement for the Dodge Viper, which was phased out of production this summer.
LINK: 2012 Dodge Viper Shown to Dealers
 
#33 ·
This past Tuesday, Chrysler Group hosted their 2010 Dealer Announcement Show in Orlando, followed by a barrage of product information for the 2011 Dodge, Chrysler, Ram, Jeep and Fiat models and it seems that among those new vehicles was the 2012 Dodge Viper. The Wall Street Journal and Autoblog have both reported that the 2012 Viper was rolled out during the end of Sergio Marchionne’s address to the crowd. As extra verification of those reports, Chrysler published Marchionne’s speech today, which ended with this interesting comment:

And so I leave you with this, the 17th car in the lineup, in select dealers in 2012. Thank you for coming, and god speed.

That 17th car in the Chrysler Group lineup, available in select dealers in 2012 is undoubtedly the 2012 Dodge Viper.

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that the 2012 Viper is “more upscale” and has shifted away from its race car heritage. When the Viper was introduced in the early 90s, it was one of the fastest cars available in the US, so it didn’t need to worry about things like a luxurious interior (the first Vipers didn’t come with air conditioning). Now that so many of today’s Supercars boast ultra high performance and a high end luxury interior, it is no surprise that the next Viper will have a little more luxury flare added to the interior. It was reported that the 2012 Dodge Viper that was shown wore brilliant candy apple red paint on the redesigned body, but little else was said about the look of the next Dodge Supercar.

There has been no concrete news from Dodge about the drivetrain for the 2012 Viper, but there have long been rumors that a Hemi-powered Viper has been considered so perhaps that could serve as a sort of entry-level version, followed up by a more traditional Viper packing the V10. Since there is no word on engines there is also no word on the power output but I would expect the 2012 Viper to pack enough power to put it well ahead of anything that GM has coming out of their Bowling Green Corvette plant.
LINK: Chrysler reveals the 2012 Dodge Viper - Detroit Autos | Examiner.com
 
#34 ·


New Dodge Viper logo shown to Viper Club of America members
Posted: Oct 06, 2010

Earlier this month at the 2010 Dealer Announcement Show in Orlando, Chrysler Group LLC gave dealers a peak at the next-generation Dodge Viper, which we heard is a fusion between the current Viper with some Alfa Romeo touches.
Recently, a few privileged Viper Club of America members were given a sneak peek of the next-generation Viper at the 11th Annual Viper Club of America’s Owners Invitational. While visitors didn’t really get to see the next-gen Viper – what they did see was the next logo.

The Dodge Viper ended production at Chrysler’s Conner Avenue assembly plant in Detroit on July 1.
LINK: New Dodge Viper logo shown to Viper Club of America members - egmCarTech
 
#35 ·
The Dodge Brand Races to the Rock ‘n’ Roll Denver Marathon and 1/2 Marathon

* 2010 official sponsor of Rock ‘n’ Roll Denver Marathon and 1/2 Marathon
* All-new 2011 Dodge Durango to pace the race
* Dedicated Dodge running team to compete in the half marathon

Denver , Oct 15, 2010 -

The Dodge brand is going the distance as an official sponsor of the inaugural Rock ‘n’ Roll Denver Marathon and 1/2 Marathon. The Dodge running team of corporate volunteers will lace up their running shoes and participate in the half marathon in Denver on Sunday, Oct. 17. In addition to being an official sponsor of the sold-out event, the all-new 2011 Dodge Durango will lead the way for thousands of runners as the official pace vehicle.

A dedicated Dodge running team also will conquer the Denver marathon. Dodge brand fans and marathon supporters can go along for the ride via the Dodge brand Facebook page at Dodge | Facebook and the Dodge brand Twitter handle (@dodge).

"At the Dodge brand, we are passionate about our products, and we're also passionate about living life to the fullest," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Running is a fun, energetic and healthy sport that reflects many of our own brand values, and participating in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series is an excellent opportunity to expose our brand to the more than 1 million people who are somehow involved in or touched by the series."

Marathon runners and attendees will be fully immersed in the Dodge brand experience with interactive mobile applications, such as Facebook and Twitter, throughout the event’s two-day Health & Fitness Expo. Running enthusiasts can check out training tips and runner profiles on the Dodge brand Facebook page. On-site, the brand will have a display that features the all-new 2011 Dodge Durango. The display will be staffed by Dodge running team members who will answer product questions and provide additional Dodge brand product information.

The Denver Marathon has been rebranded for the first time as part of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series. The series of marathons and half marathons combine entertainment and running in a unique way. Bands stationed at every mile along the race courses keep runners and walkers energized, engaged and entertained. With more than 300,000 runners participating at 14 events across the nation in 2010, it is the largest and most widely attended marathon series in the world.

"We couldn’t be more excited to team with the Dodge brand as we bring the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series to Denver for the first time in 2010," said Peter Englehart, CEO of the Competitor Group. "Our partnership brings together a shared sense of values with a commitment to quality performance, dedication and passion for a healthy and active lifestyle."

The Dodge brand kicked off its partnership with the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series during the 2010 Labor Day weekend as title sponsor of the Dodge Rock ‘n’ Roll Virginia Beach Half Marathon. In addition to its title sponsorship in Virginia Beach, Va., the brand also will be the title sponsor of the Los Angeles Half Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 24. Most recently, the brand was an official sponsor for the ING Rock ‘n’ Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon. The Rock ‘n’ Roll Denver Marathon and 1/2 Marathon had sold out with more than 15,000 entrants from all 50 states and 18 countries.

About Dodge
Dodge is a full line of cars, minivans and SUVs that are agile, daring, sensible and inventive. The brand is on a tear for the 2011 model year, redefining itself with six all-new or significantly redesigned new vehicles, introducing new lifestyle packages designed to better meet the needs of its customers, launching catchy new ads that have started conversations with owners and potential owners, actively participating in new events and sponsorships and developing relationships with its long-loyal enthusiast base, as well as reaching out to customers who want cars that leave them wanting more.

The Dodge product line includes the Dodge Caliber, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey, Dodge Nitro and Dodge Viper SRT10®. Between the end of this year and early next, the brand will fill dealer showrooms with a vast array of new and updated products. The all-new Dodge Durango will lead the charge, followed by the all-new Dodge Charger and significantly revamped Grand Caravan, Journey, Avenger and Challenger.

About the all-new 2011 Dodge Durango
The 2011 Dodge Durango, jump starts Dodge back into the sport utility (SUV) segment with a three-row vehicle spacious enough to carry the entire crew and performance-tuned to thrill anyone who truly loves to drive. Durango will lead the Dodge brand’s new product onslaught for 2011.

From its sleek exterior design to its modern, spacious interior, and intelligent, fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain options, the 2011 Dodge Durango is all-new from the inside out. And the changes are more than skin deep. The Durango’s stiffened unibody structure is engineered with the driving enthusiast in mind. The end result is a vehicle that delivers premium driving performance combined with SUV capability and crossover versatility.

About The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series
Organized by The Competitor Group, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series is famous for lining race routes with live bands and cheerleaders, massive participant numbers and rocking post race concerts. The original Rock 'n' Roll Marathon in 1998 is still recognized as the largest inaugural marathon in history with 19,979 entrants. Over the 13-year history of the series, more than 75,000 charity runners have raised more than $233 million for a variety of worthy causes and nonprofit organizations. Today, the series of marathons and half-marathons has spread to seventeen cities nationwide. For more information or to register for an event, please visit Competitor.com.

About The Competitor Group
Headquartered in San Diego, Competitor Group, Inc. (CGI) is the leading endurance media and event entertainment company dedicated to promoting the sports of running, cycling and triathlon. CGI owns and operates 45 national endurance events, including the Rock 'n' Roll Marathons Series, TriRock Triathlon Series and Columbia Muddy Buddy Series; which will deliver more than 400,000 professional and amateur participants in 2011. CGI publishes four magazine titles including VeloNews, Inside Triathlon, Triathlete magazine, and Competitor magazine with a combined monthly circulation of over 800,000. In addition, the company holds a captive online endurance community at competitor.com delivering over 1.5 million monthly unique visitors and 25 million page views. Further information about Competitor and its media properties can be found at CGI Media Kit.
 
#36 ·
Dodge Viper Cup Series Crowns 2010 Season Champion

* Ryan Schimsk captures 2010 title with late season surge

* Dodge Motorsports assists five separate charities with monetary donations from series celebrity driver program and charity auction

* National Breast Cancer Coalition accepts largest donation following efforts at season finale weekend

* Dodge Viper Cup series season finale race will be broadcast on Versus at 3:30 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time) Nov. 14



Ryan Schimsk (second from left) is the 2010 Dodge Viper Cup series champion; Ben Keating (third from left) finished second and Keith Verges (first from left) finished the season in third place.



Auburn Hills, Mich. , Nov 12, 2010 -

The inaugural season of Dodge Viper Cup series action concluded with a dual race weekend Oct. 23-24 at Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch in Pahrump, Nev., where Ryan Schimsk of Austin, Texas, earned the series championship.

The championship concluded a long battle for the top two spots through the first eight series races between Schimsk’s No. 67 Dodge Viper ACR-X and the No. 33 Dodge Viper ACR-X of Ben Keating of Victoria, Texas. Schimsk capped off a late season charge that saw him capture three of the final four series’ races to earn the 2010 Dodge Viper Cup series title.

“I came into the Dodge Viper Cup series with something to prove to myself after taking a couple of years off from racing and got this opportunity to drive this sweet, new spec-series race car,” an excited Schimsk said following his championship-clinching win. “I have to thank Dodge Motorsports for launching this competitive series and giving me that opportunity to show what the Dodge Viper ACR-X can do on the race track.”

Ralph Gilles, Dodge President and CEO – Dodge Car Brand, who also competed successfully behind the wheel of a Dodge Viper ACR-X during a few races this season, was extremely impressed by the first series’ champion and the overall level of competition during the inaugural season of Dodge Viper Cup series action.

“Ryan’s championship is extremely well deserved,” Gilles said. “Winning five out of the 10 races this year is impressive enough, but Ryan was also the most consistent driver having finished no worse than fourth in any of the 10 races against some strong competition from the series regulars and our strong list of celebrity drivers. Making it through our first season and seeing our spec-series Dodge Viper ACR-Xs in action at some of the best road courses in the country is a dream come true for all Viper enthusiasts, “ Gilles added. “It’s been a fantastic year for Viper Nation on and off the track, and we're going to review this program and make improvements in every way we can for the 2011 Dodge Viper Cup series season.”

Final Race Weekend Produces On-Track Excitement

Full-time series drivers’ Schimsk and Keating entered the series final weekend separated by a mere 48 points, providing some drama going in to the final two contests.

The starting lineup for series’ race No. 9 on Oct. 23 was made more interesting when some of the fastest qualifiers were moved back in the grid after missing a mandatory pre-race driver’s meeting. Schimsk started on the pole, while Keating started third just behind another series regular Keith Verges (in the No. 90 Dodge Viper ACR-X) in second.

At the drop of the green flag, celebrity-pro driver and TV host Tanner Foust began his charge to the front from his eighth-place starting spot.

On lap 7, a full-course caution came out and Keating, who was running third at the time, missed the caution lights and mistakenly passed Schimsk and Foust during the caution period. Keating was later penalized with a 1-minute stop, which was added on to his final race elapsed time and moved him back to eighth place in the final race results.

Schimsk was able to hold off a hard-charging Foust and his No. 52 Viper ACR-X to win the race and clinch the series’ championship. Foust finished the race in second, just .5 second behind, while Verges finished third.

In race No. 10 on Oct. 24, Gilles surprised the field by putting his No. 01 Viper ACR-X on the pole. Close behind Gilles were Foust, Schimsk and Keating, who all qualified within .768 second of each other. All four competitors used great standing starts to quickly earn some distance from the rest of the field. Before he knew it, Gilles was feeling pressure from Foust, who was able to get by him by the first turn and take the lead.

Gilles and Schimsk put on a show for several laps with close racing before Schimsk made a successful pass on lap 8 to take over the second spot.

Despite the intense racing, that’s how the top three drivers finished the final race of the 2010 season with Foust out front, Schimsk in second and Gilles completing his podium finish in third. Keating came in a close fourth while Verges finished fifth, which was enough for him to clinch the third spot in the 2010 championship standings.

Detailed race results and final season standings can be found below.

The final race of the 2010 Dodge Viper Cup series season will be broadcast on Versus at 3:30 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time) Nov. 14.

Charitable Contributions From Viper Cup Series Activities Help Make A Difference

Various celebrity drivers participated in all 10 races of the 2010 Dodge Viper Cup series season. Top-five finishers of any race donated their purses to charities of their choice.

The following is a summary of the donations raised during the 2010 Dodge Viper Cup series season:

For the final race weekend of the 2010 season, and to support October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dodge Motorsports and the North American Road Racing Association (NARRA) entered into a partnership with the National Breast Cancer Coalition. Monies earned by on-track celebrity driver performances and an auction that took place on Oct. 23 in Pahrump, Nev., were combined into one donation.

Celebrity driver Foust, who placed second in race No. 9 and won the season finale race No. 10, earned a total of $11,000 for the organization, while Gilles generated an additional $2,500 from his third-place finish in race No. 10. In addition, the auction generated more than $16,600, resulting in a $30,100 donation to National Breast Cancer Coalition on behalf of Dodge Motorsports and NARRA.

Fran Visco, the National Breast Cancer Coalition’s president praised Dodge Motorsports and NARRA for its support.

“With estimates that 263,070 women and men will be diagnosed with invasive and in situ breast cancer in 2010, this disease affects us all. We are grateful to the 2010 Dodge Viper Cup series participants and their generous support of the National Breast Cancer Coalition and our Breast Cancer Deadline 2020. This partnership helps us spread the word, change the conversation and gets us closer to ending breast cancer by January 1, 2020.”

As a result of his pair of third-place finishes in races No. 7 and No. 8, Gilles earned $5,000, which Dodge Motorsports donated on his behalf to the National Organization of Albinism and Hypopigmentation.

As a result of his third-place finish in series race No. 6 at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, Pa., on Sept. 12, multiple X-Games skateboarding gold medal winner Bucky Lasek earned $2,500, which Dodge Motorsports donated on his behalf to the Athlete Recovery Fund for injured professional athletes.

By finishing second in series race No. 3 on Aug. 14 and first in series race No. 4 on Aug. 15, at Hallett Raceway in Jennings, Okla., retired Indy Car and Champ Car star Richie Hearn earned $11,000, which Dodge Motorsports donated on his behalf to the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation.

By finishing fourth in Viper Cup series race No. 2 on July 11 at Virginia International Raceway, Shaun Bailey from Road and Track magazine earned $1,250, which Dodge Motorsports donated on his behalf to Habitat for Humanity of Orange County (Calif.).

In total, Dodge Motorsports and Mopar® offered more than $200,000 in cash and Mopar parts vouchers in 2010 as part of the Dodge Viper Cup series contingency program. Charitable contributions on behalf of the celebrity driver program and the silent auction totaled $49,850.



“The” Ultimate Special-Edition Viper

Combining the best performance attributes of the record-setting, street-legal Dodge Viper American Club Racer (ACR) and the safety equipment of championship-winning Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X is powered by the SRT-developed 8.4-liter V-10 engine, equipped with factory headers and a low-restriction exhaust system that produces 640 horsepower (40 more than the production model) and 605 lb.-ft. of torque (45 more than the production model).

The suspension also is tuned and upgraded specifically for on-track usage with unique springs, two-way adjustable shocks and adjustable sway bar links.

Curb weight is a full 160 pounds lighter (compared with the standard-production Viper) to take on even the most challenging road course. Additional aerodynamic upgrades, including quad-dive planes and underbody ducts, improve downforce, while enhancing stability and significantly improving grip in high-speed cornering.

Similar to the Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X contains factory-installed safety equipment such as a factory-designed roll cage, fire suppression system, fuel cell and race seat. Additional racing components, including a transmission cooler, rear differential cooling system, unique front rotors with larger surface area and improved brake cooling via scoops in the front fascia, are added to meet the significant durability and reliability requirements for on-track competition.

For more information on the Dodge Viper Cup series, check out the online home for all things Viper at Viper Headquarters | 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10, ACR, ACR-X, Competition Coupe, Vooodoo and 1.33 Special Editions


Celebrity-pro driver Tanner Foust competed in the No. 52 Dodge Viper ACR-X, capturing a race win a second-place finish. As a result, he raised $11,000 for the National Breast Cancer Coalition..


Dodge Motorsports teamed up with the North American Road Racing Association to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Coalition and their efforts to eradicate breast cancer.
 
#37 ·

Dodge Motorsports teamed up with the North American Road Racing Association to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Coalition and their efforts to eradicate breast cancer.


Ryan Schimsk captured five wins on his way to the 2010 Dodge Viper Cup series championship.


Dodge Viper Cup series’ regulars Ben Keating (No. 33) and Keith Verges (No. 90) put on a show at Pocono by battling to separate 1-2 finishes.


Celebrity drivers National Hot Rod Association star Allen Johnson (left) and X-Games champion Bucky Lasek, successfully show their diverse racing skills at Pocono.
 
#38 ·

Dodge Viper Cup Series kicks off the first two races of the inaugural season at Virginia International Raceway


Ralph Gilles, Dodge President and CEO (second from left), congratulates the top-3 finishers in the inaugural race of the Dodge Viper Cup series at Virginia International Raceway on July 10, 2010. Ben Keating (third from left) won the race, while Jeff Courtney (first from left) placed 2nd and Ryan Schmisk took 3rd place.


Ben Keating in the No. 33 Dodge Viper ACR-X captured the inaugural race of the Dodge Viper Cup series at Virginia International Raceway on July 10, 2010.


Ben Keating in the No. 33 Dodge Viper ACR-X leads the field during the inaugural race of the Dodge Viper Cup series at Virginia International Raceway on July 10, 2010. Keating went on to win the race.
 
#39 ·
Dodge Viper Cup Series Returns in 2011
Official Race Schedule Announced

* Season two of Dodge Viper Cup series racing kicks off May 13 at Sebring International Raceway in Sebring, Fla.

* Dodge Viper ACR-X – the ultimate special-edition model of America’s ultimate sports car – returns for second season of 10-race, high-performance spec-racing series

* Dodge continues to sell the turnkey, nonstreet legal Viper ACR-X

* Dodge Viper ACR-X on display at the Performance Racing Industry show in Orlando, Fla., through Saturday, Dec. 11


Auburn Hills, Mich. , Dec 9, 2010 -

Following a successful first season of intense on-track competition, Dodge Motorsports has announced the official schedule for the return of the Dodge Viper Cup series in 2011.

Beginning May 13-15, at the famed 3.7-mile Sebring International Raceway in Sebring, Fla., the 10-race series schedule promises more intense and competitive road racing at five different road courses across the country.

“The first season of Dodge Viper Cup series was simply awesome and a great learning experience,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – Dodge Car Brand. “We’re going to keep building on that momentum in 2011 with an expanded contingency program, a reduction in entry fees and the continuation of our successful celebrity driver and charity payout programs to once again generate lots of serious excitement for all Viper enthusiasts.”

Two races per weekend for five weekends will make up the 10-race 2011 Dodge Viper Cup series schedule, which includes:

* May 13-15 at Sebring International Raceway, Sebring, Fla.
* June 10-12 at New Jersey Motorsports Park, Millville, N.J.
* July 8-10 at Virginia International Raceway, Alton, Va.
* Sept. 2-4 at Texas World Speedway, College Station, Texas
* Oct. 21-23 at Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, Fla.

Series Contingency Program

The series contingency program sponsored by Dodge Motorsports and Mopar® has been revamped for 2011 to expand the number of payouts to the top-10 drivers. Drivers from each race will earn the following payouts in cash and Mopar vouchers awarded as credit toward the purchase of Mopar parts and accessories.

Driver Finish Cash Awarded Mopar Voucher Total
1st $4,000 $1,000 $5,000
2nd $2,500 $500 $3,000
3rd $1,750 $250 $2,000
4th $800 $200 $1,000
5th $600 $200 $800
6th $500 $200 $700
7th $400 $200 $600
8th $300 $200 $500
9th $200 $200 $400
10th $100 $200 $300

The 2011 Dodge Viper Cup series champion will win an additional $10,000 cash award.
Dodge Motorsports also is reducing the weekend entry fees for series competitors by 43 percent from $1,400 to $800 in 2011.

Celebrity Driver and Charity Payout Program

Celebrity drivers also will be back competing in the Dodge Viper Cup series in 2011. In 2010, Dodge Motorsports donated close to $50,000 to various charities as part of the program.

Dodge Motorsports selects each celebrity driver and trains them for on-track series’ competition. Similar to 2010, as many as two celebrity drivers will be invited to participate on each race weekend. Guaranteed payouts to celebrity drivers following all 10 races will be donated to their charities of choice, with the highest finishing celebrity earning $2,000 and the next highest finishing celebrity receiving $1,000 for donation.


The ‘Ultimate’ Special-Edition Viper

Unveiled at the 2010 Performance Racing Industry show, the Dodge Viper ACR-X combines the best performance attributes of the record-setting, street-legal Dodge Viper American Club Racer (ACR) and the safety equipment of championship-winning Dodge Viper Competition Coupe. Powered by the SRT-developed 8.4-liter V-10 engine and equipped with factory headers and a low-restriction exhaust system, the Viper ACR-X produces 640 horsepower (40 more than the production model) and 605 lb.-ft. of torque (45 more than the production model).

The suspension also is tuned and upgraded specifically for on-track usage with unique springs, two-way adjustable shocks and adjustable sway bar links.

Curb weight is a full 160 pounds lighter (compared with the standard-production Viper) to take on even the most challenging road course. Additional aerodynamic upgrades, including quad-dive planes and underbody ducts, improve downforce, while enhancing stability and significantly improving grip in high-speed cornering.

Similar to the Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X contains factory-installed safety equipment such as a factory-designed roll cage, fire suppression system, fuel cell and race seat. Additional racing components, including a transmission cooler, rear differential cooling system, unique front rotors with larger surface area and improved brake cooling via scoops in the front fascia, are added to meet the significant durability and reliability requirements for on-track competition.

“The Dodge Viper ACR-X is designed and built specifically for the race track,” Gilles said. “The Dodge Viper Cup series continues the racing legacy of the Dodge Viper right before our eyes, and we’re looking forward to another chapter being written in 2011.”

Dodge Motorsports continues to market and sell the nonstreet legal 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X. For more information call Viper Race Headquarters at (888) 960-3333 or visit Viper Headquarters | 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10, ACR, ACR-X, Competition Coupe, Vooodoo and 1.33 Special Editions.

Viper Racing Heritage

The Dodge Viper has enjoyed a successful racing heritage that began in 1996 with the original Viper racing entry, the GTS-R, which earned five international GT championships and the 1997-1999 FIA GT championships. It also posted an amazing overall win at the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona in 2000 – the first for a production-based American car.
Viper finished 1-2 at The 24 Hours of LeMans in GTS class in three consecutive years: 1998 – 2000 and also captured GTS class, manufacturer’s and driver’s championships in the American LeMans Series in 1999 and 2000.

The Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, introduced in 2003, delivered the next chapter of that history with its coupe-shaped carbon/Kevlar body and a track-ready chassis, based on the Dodge Viper SRT10. The Viper Competition Coupe has continued the on-track prowess by capturing the 2004 SCCA Speed World Challenge GT title, championships in Formula D Drifting series in 2004 and 2006 and the British GT Championship in 2007 and 2008.

In 2010, Ryan Schimsk of Austin, Texas captured the inaugural Dodge Viper Cup series championship by virtue of his five race wins and strong finishes in the other five races of no worse than fourth. Series regulars Ben Keating (Victoria, Texas) and Keith Verges (Dallas) finished second and third, respectively.

North American Road Racing Association and Viper Days

The Dodge Viper Cup is one race series within the group of four (including Viper Racing League, Challenge Series and Driving School) sanctioned by the North American Road Racing Association (NARRA) and Viper Days, which plans to hold 11 event weekends in 2011 at some of the country’s most prestigious race tracks.

The 2011 NARRA/Viper Days schedule consists of the following:

* Jan. 12-16 at Sebring International Raceway, Sebring, Fla.
* Feb. 25-27 at Road Atlanta, Braselton, Ga.
* March 25-27 at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway, Desert Center, Calif.
* April – TBD
* May 13-15 at Sebring International Raceway, Sebring, Fla.
* June 10-12 at New Jersey Motorsports Park, Millville, N.J.
* July 8-10 at Virginia International Raceway, Alton, Va.
* Aug. 5-7at Motorsports Park Hastings, Hastings, Neb.
* Sept. 2-4 at Texas World Speedway, College Station, Texas
* Sept. 30-Oct. 2 at Miller Motorsports Park, Tooele, Utah
* Oct. 21-23 at Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, Fla.

For more information on NARRA and Viper Days, visit Viper Days by NARRA.

About Dodge

Dodge is a full line of cars, minivans and SUVs that are agile, daring, sensible and inventive. The brand is on a tear for the 2011 model year, redefining itself with six all-new or significantly redesigned new vehicles, introducing new lifestyle packages designed to better meet the needs of its customers, launching catchy new ads that have started conversations with owners and potential owners, actively participating in new events and sponsorships and developing relationships with its long-loyal enthusiast base, as well as reaching out to customers who desire cars that leave them wanting more.

The 2011 Dodge product line includes the Dodge Caliber, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey and Dodge Nitro. Between the end of 2010 and early 2011, the brand will fill dealer showrooms with a vast array of new and updated products. The all-new Dodge Durango will lead the charge, followed by the all-new Dodge Charger and significantly revamped Grand Caravan, Journey, Avenger and Challenger.
 
#40 ·
Dodge Avenger for China
Beijing-Benz | CCT | January 9, 2008



Although China Car Times is clearly for Chinese cars (and the industry) we do have a soft spot for modern American cars. The latest offerings from Dodge look quiet tasty (and are cheap!) The Avenger for example looks excellent, bold lines from the 70′s straight in your face in 2008. We love it. Dodge are going to export the Avenger to China later this year, where it will cost 200,000rmb ($27,000USD), Stateside the Avenger is in the lower $20k region, obviously import fees have risen the price considerably for the base models.

SOURCE

Later on in the year, the stockier looking Dodge Caliber will also make an appearence in China.

Chrysler is also planning to import the Dodge Viper into China which is rumored to be priced at over 1 million RMB in China (137k USD)

We’re not sure if this model will be sold via the SouEast JV or the Beijing Benz JV. Only time will tell!
 
#41 ·



Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR Does It Again: Kuno Wittmer Sets Production Car Lap Record at Miller Motorsports Park

Wittmer breaks two-minute mark for first time in street-legal, production vehicle


Tooele, Utah , Apr 14, 2011 - The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR (American Club Racer) has made history at yet another storied road course.

Renowned Dodge road racer Kuno Wittmer piloted a street legal 2010 Dodge Viper ACR to a record lap of 1:59.995 at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah, on Monday, April 11, breaking the 2-minute mark for the first time in a production car on the 3.048-mile Outer Course configuration. The Viper ACR shattered the previous production car lap record of 2:03.86, held by Jan Magnussen in a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 by close to 4 full seconds.

“It’s amazing to come to this world-class track and shatter the production car lap record by almost 4 seconds,” said Bryan Viger, Head of Dodge Motorsports. “We brought our street-legal Viper ACR to see what Kuno could do behind the wheel, and on his second lap he’d already gone faster than the single lap record.”

A veteran behind the wheel of the Viper on and off the track, Wittmer continues to be impressed by the performance of the Dodge Viper ACR. “Wow, what an awesome supercar!” the Montreal native said after exiting the car. “The Viper ACR is such a blast to drive at the limit, and I can honestly say that I didn’t leave an inch out there on the track and was barely braking in the corners.”

This latest achievement joins a growing list of track records for the Dodge Viper ACR. In November 2009, SRT vehicle dynamics engineer Chris Winkler lapped the 2.238-mile, Laguna Seca raceway in 1:33.92, beating the previous record by 1.1 seconds. Dutch driver Tom Coronel set a 7:22.1 production car record at the 12.9-mile Nurburgring Nordschleife in August 2008.



Dodge Viper ACR
The Dodge Viper ACR remains the ultimate purpose-built, street-legal track car since its introduction in 2008.

Powered by the venerable 8.4-liter, V-10 engine with 600 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. of torque, the Dodge Viper ACR continues to offer extreme performance, including 0-60 mph acceleration in less than 4 seconds, quarter-mile time in the mid 11-second range and 0-100-0 mph in 11 seconds flat.

The four-wheel independent suspension features high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, KW suspension with two-way adjustable competition coil-over shock absorbers with remote reservoirs.

The aerodynamic package features a carbon fiber “fanged” splitter in front and adjustable carbon-fiber wing with seven-position stanchions that allow up to an amazing 1,000 lbs. of downforce at 150 mph. Lightweight wheels, two-piece slotted StopTech brake rotors and Michelin PS Cup tires round out the ACR package.

For the 2010 model year, the Dodge Viper ACR received a shorter fifth gear ratio (changing from 0.74 to 0.80) for improved high-speed acceleration and higher straightaway speeds. A new short-throw shifter also came in 2010 models for enhanced driver experience and better performance. The rear wing profile and end plates were also redesigned to further optimize the vehicle aerodynamics and improve rear yaw downforce. These changes resulted in an increase in top speed of 4 mph (to 184 mph).

About the Dodge brand
Dodge is a full line of cars, crossovers, minivans and SUVs that are agile, daring, sensible and inventive. The brand is on a tear for the 2011 model year, redefining itself with six all-new or significantly redesigned new vehicles, introducing new lifestyle packages designed to better meet the needs of its customers, launching catchy new ads that have started conversations with owners and potential owners, actively participating in new events and sponsorships and developing relationships with its long-loyal enthusiast base, as well as reaching out to customers who want cars that leave them wanting more.

For the 2011 model year, the Dodge brand is filling dealer showrooms with a vast array of new and updated products. The Dodge product line includes the all-new Dodge Durango and Dodge Charger, significantly revamped Grand Caravan, Journey, Avenger and Challenger, and the Dodge Caliber and Dodge Nitro.
 
#42 ·
Next-Gen Dodge Viper Training For ‘Super Car Olympics’



April 15, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The long, cold and snowy winter presented a perfect environment for the ultimate American-built sports car and icon of the Dodge brand’s performance car lineup to prepare for its imminent return. Using a 2010 chassis as a test subject, SRT engineers expanded the development scope for the next generation Dodge Viper to include stability control tuning for the first time. The development comes just in time for the next “Super Car Olympics,” sure to take place late in 2012 when the all-new performance icon returns.
 
#43 ·
2013 Dodge Viper Has Supplier Issues But Remains On Track For Debut Next Year

June 29th, 2011

The 2013 Dodge Viper, the third iteration of the iconic American supercar, is on track for a debut early next year, most likely at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. The information was revealed recently by Ralph Gilles, the new head of Chrysler’s standalone SRT performance division and current design chief for the entire Chrysler group.

Gilles has spoken often of the new Viper, first confirming the car back in late 2010 and later revealing that its lines have been inspired by the silhouette of a “naked woman on the beach”.

Now he has revealed that designers are having a hard time securing suppliers for the new Viper, with most firms reluctant to sign on for such a low volume model. Even in its best year, 2003, Viper sales only managed to reach 2,103 units. In 2010, its last year of production, Dodge sold just 392 units.

"It has been tough to get low-volume suppliers," Gilles revealed to Automotive News. "We have had a few hiccups here and there as we get suppliers. That type of fringe business has really dwindled. A lot of people are looking for big accounts now, but now that is behind us."

The 2013 Dodge Viper is expected to be new from the ground up, including engines, chassis and interior. One major difference will be the introduction of more driver aids, including advanced stability and traction control systems, in order to make the car appeal more to a wider target audience.



 
#44 ·
Dodge Viper Cup Series Races on at Virginia International Raceway (VIR) July 9-10 With Record Number of Entries




AUBURN HILLS, Mich., July 8, 2011

Dual race weekend at VIR features a series record 19 drivers

Championship points leader Ben Keating will be challenged by Jeff Courtney and two-time-race winner A.J. Morgan

Celebrity drivers include ESPN Winter X-Games snowmobile freestyle gold medalist Chris Burandt and Canadian auto writer Brian Makse


A record 19 drivers have entered the fifth and sixth rounds of the 2011 Dodge Viper Cup series at the historic Virginia International Raceway July 9-10. The two-race weekend features a championship battle among race winners Ben Keating, Jeff Courtney and 21-year-old A.J. Morgan, a two-time winner in four races this season. They are joined by three first-time drivers, Brad Gorrondona, Bernie Katz and Marc Montour.

Morgan emerged as the new young gun during the first round at Sebring, Fla. in May, winning the first of his two races. Courtney took the second, while Keating took both poles, but had problems that prevented him from winning.

Keating was fast again in the second round at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville in June, leading the first race from Courtney, but both drivers went off the track, handing the win to Morgan. Keating then dominated the second race of the weekend to move into the championship lead.

Larry Carter, Eric Galerne and Ted Hughes are returning to the series this weekend after missing the second round at New Jersey.

"At the midpoint of our second season, we're seeing some great competition in the Dodge Viper Cup series in 2011, said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Street and Racing Technology and Motorsports. "With our largest field ever this weekend at VIR, it's certainly setting up to be an exciting and close race to crown the series champion later this year at Daytona."

Dodge Viper ACR-X drivers expected at VIR include:



Name Hometown


Connie Bogan Reno, Nev.


Chris Burandt (Celebrity Driver) Kremmling, Colo.


Larry Carter Evans, Ga.


Jeff Courtney Jackson, Wis.


Dave Fiorelli Coppell, Texas


Eric Galerne Houston, Texas


Ralph Gilles (Celebrity Driver) Auburn Hills, Mich.


Brad Gorrondona Burleson, Texas


Billy Gropp Evans, Ga.


Ted Hughes Seward, Neb.


Bernie Katz Tomball, Texas


Ben Keating Port Lavaca, Texas


Brian Makse (Celebrity Driver) Toronto, Ontario, Can.


David Mazyck Gainesville, Fla.


Marc Montour Blainville, Quebec, Can.


A.J. Morgan Darien, Ill.


Todd Nelson Buda, Texas


Kurt Sollberger Dana Point, Calif.


Michael Von Quilich Pahrump, Nev.






Celebrity Driver and Charity Payout Program

As part of the 2011 Dodge Viper Cup series season, various celebrity drivers are invited to compete for charity. Guaranteed payouts to celebrity drivers following all 10 series races are donated to their charities of choice, with the highest finishing celebrity earning $2,000 and the next highest finishing celebrity receiving $1,000 for donation. In 2010, Dodge Motorsports donated close to $50,000 to various charities as part of the program.

Each celebrity driver is specifically chosen by Dodge Motorsports and specially trained for all on-track competition in the series by professional racer Cindi Lux of Lux Performance Group. Lux competed successfully in a Dodge Viper Competition Coupe and brings extensive experience in management of Dodge Viper SRT10 Clubs along with various celebrity driver programs.

Competing this weekend as celebrity drivers at VIR are Chris Burandt and Brian Makse.

Burandt from Kremmling, Colo., is a professional snowmobiler and backcountry adventure guide. Through his Colorado company, Burandt's Backcountry Adventure, he offers snowmobile excursions and instruction in deep powder through extreme terrain.

Burandt started snowmobiling at age 6 in the Colorado backcountry around his grandfather's home, and competed in snowcross as a teenager. He helped pioneer the sport of snowmobile freestyle in the early 2000's acquiring the nickname "Big Air Burandt." He used a newly learned snowmobile back flip to help win Gold at the 2007 ESPN Winter X Games first-ever Snowmobile Freestyle event. He won the Winter X Games silver medal in 2010 and has recently been a TV analyst for that event. He has been a two-time freestyle Rider of the Year.

Makse, an auto writer for major Canadian publications, also has been a driving instructor and coach for decades. He won the 2009 and 2010 National Auto Sport Association (NASA) Great Lakes racing championship, with first place in 10 of 15 NASA Great Lakes races in 2009. He won the 2010 NASA Great Lakes time trial championship with a perfect record and also won the 2009 Skip Barber Mazdaspeed MX-5 Media Challenge at Laguna Seca. He holds 10 current track records.


Remaining 2011 Races

Sept. 2-4 at Texas World Speedway, College Station, Texas

Oct. 21-23 at Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, Fla.

Series Contingency Program

The series contingency program sponsored by Dodge Motorsports and Mopar® has been revamped for 2011 to expand the number of payouts to the top-10 drivers.




The 2011 Dodge Viper Cup series champion will win an additional $10,000 cash award.

Dodge Motorsports also is reducing entry fees for series competitors by 43 percent from $1,400 to $800 per race in 2011.

The 'Ultimate' Special-Edition Viper

Unveiled at the 2010 Performance Racing Industry show, the Dodge Viper ACR-X combines the best performance attributes of the record-setting, street-legal Dodge Viper American Club Racer (ACR) and the safety equipment of championship-winning Dodge Viper Competition Coupe. Powered by the SRT-developed 8.4-liter V-10 engine and equipped with factory headers and a low-restriction exhaust system, the Viper ACR-X produces 640 horsepower (40 more than the production model) and 605 lb.-ft. of torque (45 more than the production model).

The suspension also is tuned and upgraded specifically for on-track usage with unique springs, two-way adjustable shocks and adjustable sway bar links.

Curb weight is a full 160 pounds lighter (compared with the standard-production Viper) to take on even the most challenging road course. Additional aerodynamic upgrades, including quad-dive planes and underbody ducts, improve downforce, while enhancing stability and significantly improving grip in high-speed cornering.

Similar to the Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X contains factory-installed safety equipment such as a factory-designed roll cage, fire suppression system, fuel cell and race seat. Additional racing components, including a transmission cooler, rear differential cooling system, unique front rotors with larger surface area and improved brake cooling via scoops in the front fascia, are added to meet the significant durability and reliability requirements for on-track competition.

"The Dodge Viper ACR-X is designed and built specifically for the race track," Gilles said. "The Dodge Viper Cup series continues the racing legacy of the Dodge Viper right before our eyes, and we're looking forward to another chapter being written in 2011."

Dodge Motorsports continues to market and sell the non-street legal 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X. For more information call Viper Race Headquarters at (888) 960-3333 or visit Viper Headquarters | 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10, ACR, ACR-X, Competition Coupe, Vooodoo and 1.33 Special Editions.

Viper Racing Heritage

The Dodge Viper has enjoyed a successful racing heritage that began in 1996 with the original Viper racing entry, the GTS-R, which earned five international GT championships and the 1997-1999 FIA GT championships. It also posted an amazing overall win at the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona in 2000 – the first for a production-based American car.

Viper finished 1-2 at The 24 Hours of LeMans in GTS class in three consecutive years: 1998 – 2000 and also captured GTS class, manufacturer's and driver's championships in the American LeMans Series in 1999 and 2000.

The Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, introduced in 2003, delivered the next chapter of that history with its coupe-shaped carbon/Kevlar body and a track-ready chassis, based on the Dodge Viper SRT10. The Viper Competition Coupe has continued the on-track prowess by capturing the 2004 SCCA Speed World Challenge GT title, championships in Formula D Drifting series in 2004 and 2006 and the British GT Championship in 2007 and 2008.

In 2010, Ryan Schimsk of Austin, Texas captured the inaugural Dodge Viper Cup series championship by virtue of his five race wins and strong finishes in the other five races of no worse than fourth. Series regulars Ben Keating (Victoria, Texas) and Keith Verges (Dallas) finished second and third, respectively.



RELATED LINKS
Viper Headquarters | 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10, ACR, ACR-X, Competition Coupe, Vooodoo and 1.33 Special Editions
 
#45 ·
All races will be broadcast, tape-delayed, on the Versus Network.
Round Race Venue City, State Race Date Broadcast *
Re-Broadcast *



1 Sebring International Raceway Sebring, FL May 14

June 15 - 4:30pm Oct 16 - 3:00pm

2 Sebring International Raceway Sebring, FL May 15
June 22 - 4:30pm Oct 23 - 3:00p

3 New Jersey Motorsports Park Millville, NJ June 11
July 13 - 4:30pm Oct 30 - 3:00pm

4 New Jersey Motorsports Park Millville, NJ June 12
July 20 - 4:30pm Nov 6 3:00pm

5 Virginia International Raceway Alton, VA July 9
Aug 10 - 4:30pm Nov 13 - 6:00pm

6 Virginia International Raceway Alton, VA July 10
Aug 17 - 5:00pm Nov 20 - 3:00pm

7 Texas World Speedway College Station, TX
September 3 Oct 5 - 4:30pm Nov 27 - 3:00pm

8 Texas World Speedway College Station, TX September 4
Oct 12 - 4:30pm Dec 4 - 3:00pm

9 Daytona International Speedway Daytona, FL October 22 Nov 23, 4:30pm Dec 11 - 3:00pm

10 Daytona International Speedway Daytona, FL October 23 Nov 30 - 4:30pm Dec 18 - 3:00pm

* All Times Eastern
 
#46 ·
Dodge Viper Cup Series 2011 at Virginia International Raceway

07/11/2011




The Dodge Viper has enjoyed a successful racing heritage that began in 1996 with the original Viper racing entry that earned five international GT championships and the 1997-1999 FIA GT championships. The Vipers legacy continues with second year of the Dodge Viper Cup Series 2011.

Viper Championship points leader Ben Keating took on a record number of competitors at a dual race weekend at Virginia International RacewayJuly-10. The fifth and sixth rounds of the 2011 Dodge Viper Cup series had a record 19 drivers entered, including two-time-race winner A.J. Morgan and Jeff Courtney.

Various celebrity drivers are invited to compete for charity as part of the 2011 Dodge Viper Cup series season with guaranteed payouts to celebrity drivers following all 10 series races donated to their charities of choice. Dodge Motorsports donated nearly $50,000 to various charities as part of the program in 2010. ESPN Winter X-Games snowmobile freestyle gold medallist, Chris Burandt and Canadian auto writer Brian Makse are among the celebrity drivers competing at VIR.

“At the midpoint of our second season, we’re seeing some great competition in the Dodge Viper Cup series in 2011, said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Street and Racing Technology and Motorsports. “With our largest field ever this weekend at VIR, it’s certainly setting up to be an exciting and close race to crown the series champion later this year at Daytona.”

In the Dodge Viper Cup Series 2011 the Dodge Viper ACR-X combines the best performance characteristics of the record setting, street-legal Dodge Viper American Club Racer (ACR) and the safety equipment of championship-winning Dodge Viper Competition Coupe. The SRT-developed 8.4-liter V-10 engine is equipped with factory headers and a low-restriction exhaust system and produces 640 horsepower and 605 lb.-ft. of torque. With unique springs, two-way adjustable shocks and adjustable sway bar links, the suspension is tuned and upgraded for on-track use and aerodynamic upgrades that include quad-dive planes and underbody ducts improve down force and increase stability while improving grip in high-speed cornering.

“The Dodge Viper ACR-X is designed and built specifically for the race track,” Gilles said. “The Dodge Viper Cup series continues the racing legacy of the Dodge Viper right before our eyes, and we’re looking forward to another chapter being written in 2011.”

Remaining races for 2011 are: Sept. 2-4 at Texas World Speedway, College Station, Texas and Oct. 21-23 at Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, Fla.

For more information visit Viper Headquarters | 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10, ACR, ACR-X, Competition Coupe, Vooodoo and 1.33 Special Editions.

 
#47 ·
2011 Viper Record Tour to Prove SRT-10 ACR Once Again




11th of July 2011
Chrysler Group might have big plans for the Dodge Viper, which will transform into a more relevant global product for the next generation, but the company isn’t done with the current one either. Apparently, the automaker wants to break every record it can with the impressive-looking SRT-10 ACR and is launching the 2011 Viper Record Tour.

Two months ago, a production version of the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR (American Club Racer) made history at the Miller Motorsports Park, in the hands of Kuno Wittmer. The road racer broke the 2-minute mark for the first time in a production car on the 3.048-mile Outer Course configuration. In addition, the Viper also set a speed record back in 2008 on the famous Nurburgring track in Germany.

The 2011 Viper Record Tour will feature stops at the Monticello Motor Club, Sebring International Raceway, New Jersey Motorsports Park, and even the Nürburgring Nordschleife where Dodge hopes it will break the Viper’s own 7:22.1 lap time.

The automaker has yet to announce who will be the combatant to sit behind the wheel and wrestle this manly car on all these circuits, but it’s anticipated that Wittmer will make a comeback.

"With the all-new Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR, SRT has taken the ultimate American sports car and injected it with an extra dose of racing DNA," said Mike Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing and Communications, Chrysler LLC. "With the Viper SRT10 as the starting point, SRT engineered a combination of reduced weight, race-tuned suspension and aerodynamic improvements to create the ultimate Viper for the street and track."


 
#48 ·
Dodge Viper lays claim to Nürburgring record with 7:12 run [UPDATE]

Sep 15th 2011




As you may already be aware, there is no official production car record at the Nürburgring. That hasn't stopped well-meaning automakers from warming up the great German marketing machine in an attempt to outdo previous marks set by their competitors, and that includes the fine folks at Dodge.

Way back in 2008, Dodge shipped one of its Viper ACR coupes to the 'Ring with the goal of setting a blistering time. Suffice it to say, the outing was a complete success. For quite some time, Dodge claimed with a time of 7:22.1 that it held the fastest lap time of any production car around the famous circuit.

Since then, a number of manufacturers and machines have bested that still-stellar time, notably the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (7:19.63) and more recently the Lexus LFA Nürburgring Edition (7:14). Now, according to a new forum post by Viper Club of America president Marv Spatz, Dodge Viper owners can cheer the return of the crown, because a Viper ACR has reportedly just reclaimed the title with an unofficial time of "7:12 and change."

Keen enthusiasts will note that the Dodge Viper is no longer in production, so SRT sourced a pair of brand-new 2010 models from Tomball Dodge of Texas before having them prepped for action by Mintgen Motorsports, a shop just down the road from the Nordschleife.

No word yet on who was behind the wheel or how many shots at the record they took, but we have a feeling that once the results are certified, all that information will be released in a hail of press releases, in-car videos and so on. For now, check out our exclusive gallery of the two Vipers making their attempts.



SOURCE
 
#49 ·
Keen enthusiasts will note that the Dodge Viper is no longer in production, so SRT sourced a pair of brand-new 2010 models from Tomball Dodge of Texas before having them prepped for action by Mintgen Motorsports, a shop just down the road from the Nordschleife.

Let's get these guys to work on a pair of Nitro's and see what they can come up with! They have until December, when production ends. Or, maybe wait a year or so as with the Viper's!

:cool:
 
#50 ·


Dodge Viper ACR Recaptures Lap Record at Nurburgring

A look at the 2010 Dodge Viper ACR's production-car, lap record lap of 7:12.13 at the world-famous 12.9-mile Nurburgring Nordschleife track in Germany, Sept. 14, 2011. Veteran GT driver Dominik Farnbacher was at the wheel for the lap, which beat the previous record by two seconds.
 
#51 ·
Dodge Viper SRT10® ACR Reclaims Production Car Lap Record at Nürburgring with 7:12.13

Veteran GT driver Dominik Farnbacher pilots street-legal, 600-horsepower 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR (American Club Racer) to new record lap at the world’s most demanding road course – the famed 12.9-mile Nürburgring Nordschleife (north course)

Chrysler Group’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) group teams up with Viper Club of America and ViperExchange by Tomball Dodge team for record-setting run

Viper ACR adds to its growing list of benchmark lap times at famous road courses



September 27, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team made history on Sept. 14, 2011, at the famed Nürburgring Nordschleife as their ultimate, street-legal, track-ready car – the Dodge Viper SRT10® ACR – recaptured the production car lap record with a 7:12.13 elapsed time.



With no 2011 model-year Dodge Viper cars being produced, SRT joined forces with the Viper Club of America and the ViperExchange by Tomball Dodge team from Tomball, Texas, which supplied two brand-new 2010 Dodge Viper ACR's off their showroom floor for the record-setting effort.

“We’re extremely proud to set the lap record for a second time at the famed Nürburgring Nordschleife,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – SRT Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. “Our team returned to Germany knowing we’d left some time on the track when we set our first lap record, so this effort shows the incredible depth and capability the Viper ACR has by running a full 10 seconds faster than we did in 2008.”

ViperExchange team owner and longtime Viper enthusiast Ben Keating, also was instrumental in securing veteran GT driver Dominik Farnbacher to drive the Viper ACR to the new record lap. Keating and Farnbacher previously teamed up at the 24 Hours of Daytona in 2011.

The street-legal Viper ACR is factory-equipped and tuned for outstanding track performance with coil-over racing dampers that are adjustable for both damping and ride height. The shocks are two-way factory adjustable without removing the wheels – a timesaver at any track configuration – and they include a large range for compression and rebound adjustment. Aerodynamics are also adjustable via carbon-fiber rear wing with seven-position stanchions and an adjustable front splitter.

SRT’s first official visit to the Nürburgring took place in August 2008 when the newly launched 2008 Dodge Viper ACR came to Germany with driver Tom Coronel and established a new production car lap record time of 7:22.1, a record that stood through much of 2011.

As a result of their original trip to Nürburgring, SRT engineering implemented a few specific improvements to get even more speed out of the record-setting supercar.

For the 2010 model year, the Viper ACR received a shorter fifth gear ratio (changing from 0.74 to 0.80) for improved high-speed acceleration and higher straightaway speeds. This helped achieve higher speeds down the front straightaway of Döttinger Höhe and past the Antonius Bridge on the Nürburgring course. The rear-wing profile and end plates also were redesigned to further optimize the vehicle aerodynamics and improve yaw downforce, which allowed greater speeds through the high speed turns such as Schwedenkreuz. A new short-throw shifter also came in 2010 models for enhanced driver control and quicker shifts.

The hot-lap testing was spread over two days. On Sept. 12, the track was completely wet at the beginning of the four-hour session. By the final hour, the track was mostly dry but peak performance was limited due to a few remaining damp areas at the Bergwerk corner and Fuchsröhre and Wippermann areas. The best lap of the day was a 7:15.6 at the end of the session. By Sept. 14, a clear weather pattern allowed the track to dry and gave the team good conditions for the Viper ACR’s final lap of 7:12.13.

The Viper ACR holds benchmark lap times at the following road courses:

Autobahn Country Club, Joliet, Ill. 2:37.70
Buttonwillow Raceway Park, Buttonwillow, Calif. 1:55.70
Gingerman Raceway (1.88-mile original course), South Haven, Mich. 1:26.70
Grattan Raceway, Belding, Mich. 1:22.70
Laguna Seca Raceway, Salinas, Calif. 1:33.90
Miller Motorsport Park (3.05-mile outer loop), Tooele, Utah 1:59.90
Monticello Motor Club, Monticello, N.Y. 2:26.37
MotorSport Ranch (3.1-mile full course), Cresson, Texas 2:19.00
Nelson Ledges Road Course, Garrettsville, Ohio 1:08.90
New Jersey Motorsports Park, Millville, N.J. 1:28.08
No Problem Raceway, Belle Rose, La. 1:16.90
Nürburgring Nordschleife, Nürburg, Germany 7:12.13
Putnam Park, Mount Meridian, Ind. 1:12.60
Sebring Full Course, Sebring, Fla. 2:19.47
Spring Mountain (2.2-mile layout), Pahrump, Nev. 1:45.40
Texas World Speedway, College Station, Texas 1:47.56
Top Gear USA (El Toro), Irvine, Calif. 1:22.00
Virginia International Raceway (3.27-mile full course), Alton, Va. 2:00.63
Willow Springs Raceway, Rosamond, Calif. 1:26.00



Dodge Viper ACR
The Viper ACR remains the ultimate purpose-built, street-legal, track-ready car since its introduction in 2008.

Powered by the venerable 8.4-liter, V-10 engine with 600 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. of torque, the Viper ACR offers extreme performance, including 0-60 mph acceleration in less than 4 seconds, quarter-mile time in the mid 11-second range and 0-100-0 mph in 11 seconds flat.

The four-wheel independent suspension features high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, KW suspension with two-way adjustable competition coil-over shock absorbers with remote reservoirs.

The aerodynamic package features a carbon fiber “fanged” splitter in front and adjustable carbon-fiber wing with seven-position stanchions that allow up to an amazing 1,000 pounds of downforce at 150 mph. Lightweight forged aluminum wheels, two-piece slotted brake rotors and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires round out the ACR package.
 
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