The 2013 SRT Viper: The Snake Strikes Back

2013 SRT Viper - images courtesy of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles

Chrysler took a short hiatus from producing its wonderfully potent Viper sports car, but for the 2013 model year the company brough the Viper back, causing a big wave in the industry. The car was housed under the SRT brand, which caused quite a bit of confusion since the earlier Vipers were Dodges. The changes didn’t stop there, with the Viper being completely redesigned for a more modern high-performance driving experience both on the road and on the track, while thankfully still retaining some of the raw and unbridled aspects of the car.

To start off, the 2013 SRT Viper receives plenty of power via a massive 8.4 liter V-10 engine, complete with overhead valves and variable timing. Output tops out at a deafening 640 horsepower and 600 pound-foot of torque, causing lesser cars to cower in the Viper’s presence. A six speed manual transmission helps transfer power to the car’s rear wheels, providing a pure American muscle driving experience.

New to the Viper line is stability control, which can be completely turned off if a driver wants to have a more “pure” interaction with the car. Launch control also comes standard. A double wishbone suspension in the front and rear give the car even better handling dynamics than before, making the SRT Viper a car that can be driven more often than past Vipers.

SRT continued adding modern touches to the Viper. Curb weight has been lowered to 3,354 pounds, making it 30% lighter than the previous Viper. This lower weight translates into brisker acceleration and better handling characteristics. The car’s new frame is lighter weight, but it is actually 50% stiffer than in previous Vipers.

Not only the driver will enjoy the 2013 SRT Viper, but the passenger will as well. Interior space has been enlarged upon, providing considerably more legroom and headroom to accommodate some of the tallest occupants out there. Instead of a Spartan interior as before, occupants sit on supple leather seats and are treated to soft-touch materials from the doors, dash and center console. Further showing the signs of the times, Chrysler has outfitted the SRT Viper with a navigation screen, heated seats, a Bluetooth connection for talking on the phone with a headset and a USB plug. 

To truly enjoy driving the Viper all the time, you would still need to be pretty dedicated to the car, because it's a handful, to say the least. If you want a constantly engaging drive that keeps you on your toes, this is a good option to consider.