Detlef
Enthusiast
http://www.allpar.com/cars/viper/index.html
or
Updated October 20, 2006.
Spy shots show a 2008 Dodge Viper with changes to the intake manifold, airbox, and radiator; the valve covers are different (much larger) and it appears that the fuel rail is larger in diameter. There appear to be dual throttle bodies, as well. The Viper mule has an oversized hood, possibly to cover larger intake manifolds - which could be used for a ram-air effect to increase top end horsepower at the expense of low-end torque (which the Viper can certainly spare). We’d really be surprised if they didn’t add variable valve timing, which could help counter the loss of low end torque and probably increase top horsepower while improving driveability. We’ve also heard that still-bigger brakes are planned to counter the increase in power, not to mention to help in that 0-100-0 number.
From reliable “oh20:” “Late next summer the last 2006 Viper will roll off the lines. When the employees return to work the following January, a little over 14 months from now, they will be building the refreshed 2008 "ZB" models. The 2007 model year is going to be skipped.”
From a source who would probably prefer to remain nameless: “The 2008 Dodge Viper is solid - much faster and sleeker, while still keeping the twin **** in top (on coupe models) but with a whole new front end that’s sharper and more menacing.”
From reliable “2.0 R/T:” As for the brakes they will be 14 inch Brembos and bring the 2008 snake to a stop from 60MPH in less than 100 ft. As for the body only minor changes, think hood and front fascia.
Given the recent showing of a McLaren Viper, and rumors about the current V10 being “made over” by an external firm, it seems almost certain that the 2008 Dodge Viper will use a McLaren-massaged V10 engine, probably the one shown at SEMA in the ASC Diamondback Viper. That engine was rated at 615 hp, a fat 110 hp more than the current version; that Viper could do 0-60 in 3.5 seconds, a few tenths better than the current model in a genre where a few tenths are a big difference. The ASC model cut weight using expensive carbon fiber, but then, McLaren might not have been showing all their engine could do; we’ve been told to expect 700 hp but a reliable source said 650 hp is more likely (with an official rating of 600 hp). Keep in mind that the Viper V-10 is not a typical "peaky" engine and that it has tire-melting power right off idle, so this is quite good.
Other rumors were not particularly credible - using the Mercedes V12 (not Viper-like), a V10 Hemi (expensive to create, poor emissions), a turbocharged V10 (not desired by current owners), and an even bigger Hemi V8 (again, not Viper-like). The current Viper engine, based on the LA V8 family introduced decades ago, most likely has untapped potential which could be awakened by expert tuners.
A Chrysler version of the Viper is almost certainly in the works. The Firepower may be a look at what's to come - it's a Hemi-powered, Viper-chassis Chrysler that would be cheaper to make, and would add to the volume of the Viper chassis, helping to spur profitability. By using a standard-production drivetrain, it's no doubt much cheaper to make - and performance is still respectable with a Corvette-like 0-60 in 4.5 seconds. (Keep in mind it's an automatic.) The Firepower is said to have definitely been approved.
oh20’s 2008 Dodge Viper rumor roundup summary:
Predicted debut: NAIAS (North American International Auto Show), January 2007 - live coverage by Allpar is planned
2008 model production: January 8th, 2007 to July 2008 (for the 2008 model)
Models: SRT10 coupe and SRT convertible (+ Special edition models); Series ZB
New Dodge Viper features:
8.4L SFI V10 engine replaces 8.3L V10 (600-650 hp estimate; 600-615 likely)
Restyled exterior and SRT-10 satin silver badging
High performance alternator
Viper carryovers from 2006:
6-speed T56 manual transmission (revised?)
3.07 axle ratio
12-inch clutch
18.5-gallon fuel tank
18x10 and 19x13 wheels
275/35ZR18 and 345/30ZR19 Michelin tires
310-watt amp w/7 speakers and subwoofer
Anti-lock 4-wheel-disc brakes
Dual side exhaust
HID headlamps
Keyless entry
Leather wrapped steering wheel
Power adjustable pedals
Power windows (1-touch up)
Preferred suede seats w/leather trim
Radio RBQ AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD
Sirius satellite radio
Sport Suspension
Tilt steering column
or
Updated October 20, 2006.
Spy shots show a 2008 Dodge Viper with changes to the intake manifold, airbox, and radiator; the valve covers are different (much larger) and it appears that the fuel rail is larger in diameter. There appear to be dual throttle bodies, as well. The Viper mule has an oversized hood, possibly to cover larger intake manifolds - which could be used for a ram-air effect to increase top end horsepower at the expense of low-end torque (which the Viper can certainly spare). We’d really be surprised if they didn’t add variable valve timing, which could help counter the loss of low end torque and probably increase top horsepower while improving driveability. We’ve also heard that still-bigger brakes are planned to counter the increase in power, not to mention to help in that 0-100-0 number.
From reliable “oh20:” “Late next summer the last 2006 Viper will roll off the lines. When the employees return to work the following January, a little over 14 months from now, they will be building the refreshed 2008 "ZB" models. The 2007 model year is going to be skipped.”
From a source who would probably prefer to remain nameless: “The 2008 Dodge Viper is solid - much faster and sleeker, while still keeping the twin **** in top (on coupe models) but with a whole new front end that’s sharper and more menacing.”
From reliable “2.0 R/T:” As for the brakes they will be 14 inch Brembos and bring the 2008 snake to a stop from 60MPH in less than 100 ft. As for the body only minor changes, think hood and front fascia.
Given the recent showing of a McLaren Viper, and rumors about the current V10 being “made over” by an external firm, it seems almost certain that the 2008 Dodge Viper will use a McLaren-massaged V10 engine, probably the one shown at SEMA in the ASC Diamondback Viper. That engine was rated at 615 hp, a fat 110 hp more than the current version; that Viper could do 0-60 in 3.5 seconds, a few tenths better than the current model in a genre where a few tenths are a big difference. The ASC model cut weight using expensive carbon fiber, but then, McLaren might not have been showing all their engine could do; we’ve been told to expect 700 hp but a reliable source said 650 hp is more likely (with an official rating of 600 hp). Keep in mind that the Viper V-10 is not a typical "peaky" engine and that it has tire-melting power right off idle, so this is quite good.
Other rumors were not particularly credible - using the Mercedes V12 (not Viper-like), a V10 Hemi (expensive to create, poor emissions), a turbocharged V10 (not desired by current owners), and an even bigger Hemi V8 (again, not Viper-like). The current Viper engine, based on the LA V8 family introduced decades ago, most likely has untapped potential which could be awakened by expert tuners.
A Chrysler version of the Viper is almost certainly in the works. The Firepower may be a look at what's to come - it's a Hemi-powered, Viper-chassis Chrysler that would be cheaper to make, and would add to the volume of the Viper chassis, helping to spur profitability. By using a standard-production drivetrain, it's no doubt much cheaper to make - and performance is still respectable with a Corvette-like 0-60 in 4.5 seconds. (Keep in mind it's an automatic.) The Firepower is said to have definitely been approved.
oh20’s 2008 Dodge Viper rumor roundup summary:
Predicted debut: NAIAS (North American International Auto Show), January 2007 - live coverage by Allpar is planned
2008 model production: January 8th, 2007 to July 2008 (for the 2008 model)
Models: SRT10 coupe and SRT convertible (+ Special edition models); Series ZB
New Dodge Viper features:
8.4L SFI V10 engine replaces 8.3L V10 (600-650 hp estimate; 600-615 likely)
Restyled exterior and SRT-10 satin silver badging
High performance alternator
Viper carryovers from 2006:
6-speed T56 manual transmission (revised?)
3.07 axle ratio
12-inch clutch
18.5-gallon fuel tank
18x10 and 19x13 wheels
275/35ZR18 and 345/30ZR19 Michelin tires
310-watt amp w/7 speakers and subwoofer
Anti-lock 4-wheel-disc brakes
Dual side exhaust
HID headlamps
Keyless entry
Leather wrapped steering wheel
Power adjustable pedals
Power windows (1-touch up)
Preferred suede seats w/leather trim
Radio RBQ AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD
Sirius satellite radio
Sport Suspension
Tilt steering column
