yeah, your comparo was wrong relative to the 2000
For a few reasons, the 2000 was JUST like the pervious version in both looks and relative performance.
The 06 coupe looks completely different from the windshield back vs srt-10 conv. So they physically are different cars then their 03-05 counter parts and they did not take a hit as far as loosing strength of their motor relative to the previous version like the 2000 did, as the 05/06 is actually better motor then the 03, and 04s as it has a lighter crank, and spark knock sensors built into the block and better bearings along with a few other changes throughout the development of the motor. There also wont be any braking improvement on the 08 like the 01 vs 00. But the 08 will get a stronger tranny, which i have a feeling will be interchangeable just like the gen 3 tranny is interchangeable with the gen 2. (I'd say all parts relative to the drive line are probalby swapable in one degree or another).
Next, I agree the 96 rt/10 was a better "comparison," but it too falls short in being "=" to this scenerio, as it got a marginal increase in power over its prior years version, but less power then the following year. Where as the 06 coupe kept the same power as its 03-05 brothers. Which isnt a good thing, but just shows its not an exact match either to that situation. Keep in mind again, even on this one, the previous and later models looked the same, no significant rework externally from 95 to 97.
So what does this mean? Not a whole heck of a lot. I dont think 96 rt/10s are any more collectable then their earlier or later years, although if I was to chose an rt/10 it would be a 99 or 01-02(prefered). And if I was going to get a GTS, again 99 or 01-02(prefered).
I dont think this change to more hp and the next revision of drive line components is hurting us, or helping us (06 coupe guys). Its just about change. This is development/change at its finest, some people like the old, some people like the new. I personally own an 06 S/C coupe and for a split second, thought I would just give Dad my coupe and buy myself a new 08. But then it hit me, "why?" In 09-10 they are going to release the GEN 4. And then what? I have to give my dad my 08, so I can have the 2009-2010 ? Nah.. I love the changes they have made to the gen 3.5, and hopefully some will be incorporated into my car as I break stuff during normal wear and tear. But I'm not rushing out to get one, just because its marginally better then what I have now. When the 09/10 is ready, I'll be ready for my next viper !!
GO DODGE !! Long Live The Viper !!
Jon
PS. One cool thing that does kinda make the 06 coupe seem like the 00, is that we have Viper Slate Pearl Coat for 06, and i dont think thats going to be avail for 08 cars. So in that respect, the 06 Viper Slate Pearl coat coupe guys (the whole 8 or so of us, lol) have the Steal Gray of our generation