The iconic Chrysler Viper, in its fifth-generation form, was a masterpiece of engineering and design. Revealed with great fanfare at the 2012 New York Auto Show, it was hailed as the best iteration yet of this legendary nameplate. However, despite its exceptional performance and striking aesthetics, the Viper struggled to find its footing in the market.
Slow sales led to a temporary halt in production in 2014 and ultimately to its discontinuation in 2017. Despite its commercial challenges, the fifth-generation Viper remains a coveted collectible.
Its GTS variant offered a balanced blend of performance and luxury, while the ACR model set a new benchmark for track prowess with a blistering lap time around the Nürburgring Nordschleife. The combination of exceptional performance, distinctive styling, and rarity has made the Viper a sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts.
One such example is a 2013 SRT Viper GTS, which recently sold for $122,000 after spending 11 years in the hands of its original owner. With only 16,000 miles on the clock, this pristine vehicle still retains its showroom-fresh appeal. Finished in a striking Stryker Red Tinted Pearl exterior color, it boasts a host of performance enhancing features including a vented hood, adjustable Bilstein shocks, and Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires.
The Viper’s enduring popularity and strong resale value are a testament to its exceptional qualities. Its powerful V10 engine, coupled with its lightweight construction and aerodynamic design, provided exhilarating performance on both the road and the track. The Viper’s distinctive styling, with its aggressive lines and bold proportions, made it instantly recognizable and visually appealing.
In addition to its performance and aesthetics, the Viper also offered a comfortable and well-equipped interior. The cabin featured high-quality materials and a spacious layout, providing a luxurious and enjoyable driving experience. The Viper’s advanced technology, including its infotainment system and driver assistance features, ensured a modern and convenient driving experience.
While the fifth-generation Viper may have faced commercial challenges, its legacy as a legendary performance car lives on. Its exceptional performance, striking design, and strong resale value make it a highly desirable collectible. The Viper’s enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal and its place in automotive history. Inside, you’ll find luxurious Laguna leather seats that are both power-adjustable and incredibly comfortable.
This premium material extends to the dashboard, center console, and door panels, creating a sophisticated and upscale interior. A Harman Kardon sound system with 18 speakers provides immersive audio, while power-adjustable pedals, automatic climate control, cruise control, and an Alcantara headliner add to the comfort and convenience.
Under the hood, the Gallardo Superleggera boasts a hand-built 8.4-liter V10 engine that delivers an impressive 640 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, ensuring a direct and engaging driving experience.
An Arrow Racing ECU has been added, enhancing performance, while the stock ECU is also included for those who prefer the original setup. Despite being a few years old, the Gallardo Superleggera remains remarkably fast.
It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds with a skillful launch and has a top speed of 206 mph. While it may not consistently outperform all wheel drive supercars in a quarter-mile race, the Gallardo Superleggera’s raw power and rear wheel drive dynamics make it a truly exhilarating and unforgettable driving experience.
