Ron Hickey
Enthusiast
There is an article Jay Herbert wrote on what to look for in a used Viper. I'm sure someone will post the link. In general, there are no Viper years to avoid -- it's all a matter of what features you consider important and what you want to pay. There are two generations of Vipers and two body styles, and very few options. So there's not a lot of varied choices. This is a good time to buy a used Viper, as it's a buyer's market.
Gen I -- RT/10 (roadster) 1992 thru 1996: 400 HP (415 in 1996); no side windows; great performance for the true sports car enthusiast; some Viper fans consider this version the only true Viper. Lots of good, clean cars available in many colors besides red: black, yellow, white and green. 1996 was a hyprid year, with many of the Gen II suspension components. Downside: the newest of this generation is 7 years old; could be tough (but not impossible) to get a warranty; this generation is prone to head gasket leaks; but if you find a car with an Arrow engine rebuild (done under warranty), that's a big plus.
Gen II -- GTS (coupe) 1996 thru 2002, RT/10 1997 thru 2002: 450 HP, 490 TQ; more refined than Gen I; interior features real power glass side windows, adjustable pedals; add power side mirrors, brushed aluminum trim, 18-inch wheels for 99 and later. ABS added in 2001. No major mechanical issues with this generation. 1996-1999 were the strongest of the stock Vipers; a cam change and a switch to cast pistons in 2000 cause the 00-02 Vipers to be affectionately called "creampuffs." The 00-02 cars are smoother to drive than 96-99, but do not respond as well to certain modifications. However, we're talking 10-15 horsepower difference here -- nothing major. If you were buying a car to do some forced induction mods, the 96-99 vintage would be the best choice. Otherwise, availability, price and color choice will probably determine what year car you buy (unless you want red).
Do a search for "buying a viper" and you'll find lots of info. Or talk to the VCA president for your region. He'll be glad to help.
Gen I -- RT/10 (roadster) 1992 thru 1996: 400 HP (415 in 1996); no side windows; great performance for the true sports car enthusiast; some Viper fans consider this version the only true Viper. Lots of good, clean cars available in many colors besides red: black, yellow, white and green. 1996 was a hyprid year, with many of the Gen II suspension components. Downside: the newest of this generation is 7 years old; could be tough (but not impossible) to get a warranty; this generation is prone to head gasket leaks; but if you find a car with an Arrow engine rebuild (done under warranty), that's a big plus.
Gen II -- GTS (coupe) 1996 thru 2002, RT/10 1997 thru 2002: 450 HP, 490 TQ; more refined than Gen I; interior features real power glass side windows, adjustable pedals; add power side mirrors, brushed aluminum trim, 18-inch wheels for 99 and later. ABS added in 2001. No major mechanical issues with this generation. 1996-1999 were the strongest of the stock Vipers; a cam change and a switch to cast pistons in 2000 cause the 00-02 Vipers to be affectionately called "creampuffs." The 00-02 cars are smoother to drive than 96-99, but do not respond as well to certain modifications. However, we're talking 10-15 horsepower difference here -- nothing major. If you were buying a car to do some forced induction mods, the 96-99 vintage would be the best choice. Otherwise, availability, price and color choice will probably determine what year car you buy (unless you want red).
Do a search for "buying a viper" and you'll find lots of info. Or talk to the VCA president for your region. He'll be glad to help.
