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It’s ten years since the original Viper concept was
unveiled after some Chrysler engineers went to work with a V10 truck engine and a simple
chassis. Three years later the Coupe appeared and the car has gone on to become a proper
modern day muscle car in the US, and a successful racer in GT series in Europe, including
impressive displays of durability at Le Mans.
Race InspiredLe Mans was the inspiration for this concept car - the GTS/R - unveiled at the Detroit Motor show. A ‘street legal, race inspired concept car’. The use of the term ‘concept’ seems a little misplaced as there seems little doubt that a limited edition will be produced. Many of the changes are inspired by endurance racing and it’s probably not too far off the mark to suggest this car will go into limited production to satisfy FIA homologation rules.
The Dodge Viper GTS/R concept keeps the spaceframe, aluminium suspension, 8.0 litre aluminum V-10 engine and high-performance six-speed manual gearbox used in the current Viper. However, like the race cars, this version has a dry-sumped engine producing five hundred horsepower, up fifty from the current road cars. Torque is also hits the magic 500 lb-ft. One Piece BodyThe body is a single moulding of carbon-fibre, but with some subtle changes compared with the existing cars. An inch and a half has been taken out between the sill and the roof, which together with a chassis sitting two inches lower, gives the car a much lower profile. Three inches have been added to the wheelbase and two inches to the track, making an already sizable car into a huge beast. The doors have also been lengthed, which combined with the longer wheelbase makes entry and exit from the car that much easier - important for endurance racing driver changes. Fourteen-inch ventilated disc brakes with four-piston calipers all-around will bring the car to a halt, whilst the 19-inch wheels with P285/30 ZR Goodyear tires up front and 20-inch rear wheels with P335/30 ZR tyres hit the tarmac.
Cooling ducts have been enlarged with NACA style intakes and bonnet louvers, brake cooling ducts all inspired by the race cars. An electronically adjustable front splitter, rear diffuser and huge rear spoiler contribute to race style aerodynamics. Lighting is much improved, again with night time endurance racing in mind. Stereo and Leather ConcessionsThe few concessions to road use include a stereo, air conditioning, adjustable pedals and black leather in places. Not surprisingly, this car is quick. 60 should be reached in 3.8 seconds and it’s expected to crack the 200mph barrier. All in all, a thinly disguised Le Mans contender!
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