You will find a few other similar threads on this site. Be sure to use the "Search" button towards the top of this page.
That said, there are too many factors to give you good advice on this. One common question is whether or not you rent or own. Most will advise to spend the extra money on buying a house. Since you live in the San Fran area, you already know what a high cost of living you face. Do you have a wife? Children? All are BIG factors when considering a two-seat sports car. The wife especially. Daily driver? Sure! As to the miles, you have to decide if you are buying it for yourself or for the next owner. If for yourself, drive it 'til it drops. If you are buying it with the next owner in mind, keep it in a garage and drive it only on sunny days (yuck).
You can buy earlier "Gen I" Vipers for less than more recent models (as it is with any car). Do you want one with ABS? It will be more expensive as they started in 2001. Power windows (or windows at all)? Again, starting in 1996. Decide what you want from your car and then start shopping. You know your current debt load better than we do. Monthly payments? Let's say that you find a used Viper for $40,000. You put down $5,000 and then finance the remainder for five years at 7% interest. That leaves you with a monthly principle & interest payment of $693.04.
Click here to plug in your own numbers and determine your payments.
Bottom line is that the Viper is WONDERFUL to drive and to own. It is a real handful of performance, so you need to take a driving school if you plan to get playful with it at all. If you enjoy the peace and quiet of a 35 mile commute, this may not be the car for you. The earlier (less expensive) models were not built with quiet highway drives in mind. For those accustomed to an airtight import, the noise might get on your nerves. The later coupes and RT's are more tightly sealed, but they are still a fairly "raw" car and not a luxo-cruiser by any means.
Whew! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Also try that "search" key above and you may be surprised at the results! Best of luck, and keep us posted on what you decide to do.
Chris
