2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe Review

Snake Bitten

The racy Dodge Viper Coupe unleashes its venom with 600 horses under its long hood.

There are few cars more extreme than the Dodge Viper SRT10. Think of it as America's version of a super car — although it's not quite as rare or expensive as an Aston Martin DB9 or Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, it definitely has the muscle to keep pace with them. And it leaves a memorable impression with its aggressive look and menacing sound.

The current-generation Dodge Viper SRT10 (which debuted as a 2003 model) is far more refined than the original, which debuted in 1992. But it has a rude and crude demeanor, which can be seen as part of its appeal, or as a drawback, given the car's price point. 

Regardless of how you view it, the only thing that will be on your mind when pressing the accelerator is keeping this beast on course. Its sheer power and visceral feedback can be intimidating even to seasoned car enthusiast with experience driving on race tracks.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe was added to the line in 2006. A mid-cycle refresh for 2008 added assorted performance upgrades to a car that had already been recently improved in terms of handling, styling, and fit and finish. Its most important upgrade is a considerably stronger version of its potent V10 powerplant.

This 8.4-liter aluminum engine utilizes technology like variable valve timing to generate a full 600 horsepower, which is sufficient to launch the Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe to 60 miles per hour in under four seconds. This places it among some heady competition with some of the costliest exotic sports cars.

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The only available transmission is a Tremec-supplied six-speed manual that’s specially engineered to handle all that power. An external transmission-oil cooler is optional for those who push their Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupes to the limit.

A robust speed-sensing limited-slip differential teams with racecar-like four-wheel independent suspension to help keep the Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe planted through curves. The car's ride quality continues to be on the harsh side. A heavy-duty antilock disc braking system features oversized Brembo calipers and enables the car to get back to a standstill from 60 mph in just 100 feet.

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Driving a Viper can be a little like trying to tame a wild beast. In a car of such power and speed, the limits of adhesion — that is, when the tires lose their grip — can come on quickly in turns and overwhelm inexperienced drivers who might not be familiar with the idiosyncrasies of 600 horses being channeled through the 19-inch rear wheels’ relatively small contact patches (where the rubber meets the road).

• Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe Vehicle Summary

The Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe's fixed roof has humps on either side for added headroom. The closed-roof Coupe is a more rigid structure than that of the open-top Roadster which translates into fewer shakes and rattles over uneven pavement.

The front fascia, front fenders, hood, and doors are shared with the convertible model. Unique rear-end styling features wrap-around tail lamps, a special windshield surround, side glass, rear fascia, and quarter panels. The integrated rear deck-lid spoiler works with the streamlined roof to improve aerodynamically generated downforce for high-speed stability.

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Cosmetic changes during the Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe’s most recent refresh include a larger air scoop and six functional air extractors cut into its long and sloping hood to help dissipate the heat generated by the added power.

The Spartan cockpit includes a no-nonsense instrument panel with push-button starter and supportive sport seats. A choice of bezel finishes on the gauges and console affords Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe buyers an element of interior customization. However, those looking for a long list of fanciful high-tech gadgets should look elsewhere.