Very interesting thread.....
I own a 2001 Viper, and 2005 SSR (05 LS2 with a six speed). It would take a hell of a lot of punch for the SSR to touch the Viper. And the Viper, like the SSR is still a rare sight and a much better exotic than the Vett.
Autoweek said it best a while back in one of their mags.... See highlights in Red. The Viper is the most incredible car I have ever driven and I will probably get a new one soon. Road and Track and car and Driver still give the nod to the Viper over the Z06.
Date in fleet: Sept. 19-26
As-tested price: $86,995
Powertrain: 8.3-liter V10; rwd, six-speed manual
Output: 510 hp @ 5600 rpm, 535 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Curb weight: 3450 lbs
Fuel mileage (EPA combined/AW observed): 14.63 mpg/11.26 mpg
HART: Few other cars I’ve driven give you the kind of rush you get from stepping down hard on the Viper’s throttle. The thrust is impressive as is the rush of sound, from the exhaust and the wind. Steering is quick, and if there are any imperfections in the road they are immediately relayed to you through the steering wheel. The tight bucket seat leaves little room for movement, and when you add all those sensations together you’re left with a uniquely American experience.
I’m glad Auburn Hills still feels it is worth it to build a car like the Viper. It may not be quicker than a Z06, and it doesn’t have the DNA the Ford GT does, but drive the Viper, push it a little bit, and it’s an experience unlike anything else you can find today.
GRITZINGER: They’re crazy machines, these Vipers—race cars for the street with demeanor to match. This car, in contrast, is one I could live with on a daily basis. It’s not quite the full-on race car in road trim the first-generation was, which is exactly why it is a much more driver-friendly, fun-to-drive place to be. It will still make nerves tingle with a mash of the right pedal, the exhaust note is supreme, and the driving experience otherworldly. But this new Viper adds a livable interior, reasonable 360-degree visibility, and a near race-car experience for those who drive on regular highways. This coupe is, hands down, the best Viper I’ve ever driven.
MORRISON: Copy Gritzinger on the “best Viper I’ve ever driven” comment. This new coupe doesn’t feel as rough-and-tumble as the roadster, but it is still a raw, unique experience.
If the Viper had hands, it would rip your heart out, show it to you while it was still beating, then devour it right in front of you.
That does not mean the Viper is an uncontrollable spawn of Satan. Spawn of Satan, yes, but you can keep it rubber-side down and pointed in the right direction; you just need a delicate touch. Too much right foot burns the tires in a flash; combine too much right foot (it doesn’t take a lot) with too much or too abrupt steering, and you’ll be headed into oblivion.
Cars like the Porsche 911 and Chevrolet C6 Corvette make most anyone look good, but the Viper exposes mediocre talent with less sensitivity than that British clown on American Idol.
And from Car and Driver : Sept 06 Road & Track comparison
They compared the srt10 (convt) zo6, ford gt, gallardo, f430f1 & new 911 turbo.
The viper being the only topless car. Stats not so bad. topless viper did 194.8 mph. SRT 10 was tied for 3rd in lap times with the zo6 beating the ford gt & new 911 turbo.
In the end they like the viper the best of the american cars
Oh well, enough rambling..... the SSR, like the Viper is a rare and unique vehicle. But the Viper is an amazing car to drive hard. And scary. I take it easy in mine....
John
