2001 Dodge Viper: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This high-performance 2-seater gets standard antilock brakes for 2001. Viper's GTS coupe and RT/10 convertible share a 450-hp 8.0-liter V10, America's largest and most-powerful production automobile engine. The coupe's optional racetrack-intended ACR package adds 10 hp. A 6-speed manual transmission is mandatory. Clutch, brake, and gas pedals manually adjustable for reach. The convertible offers an optional hard top. Side airbags and traction control are unavailable. Blue pearl and yellow exterior hues are new for '01, the latter available with black stripes.

COMPETITION

This class features an interesting mix of hard-core performance models and more luxurious touring convertibles. Our Best Buys give you a little of both worlds. The Chevrolet Corvette is fast, comfortable, and reasonably affordable. Unlike previous models it doesn't beat you up with a hard ride, and it will cruise quietly at highway speeds. Our other Best Buy, the Mazda Miata, is a bare-bones roadster with few frills and average acceleration, but for weekend fun on a twisty back road it's hard to beat.

If you don't mind spending a few more bucks, we recommend you take a look at the Mercedes-Benz SLK. The Mercedes offers an interesting mix of performance and luxury. It also has a retractable hardtop, making it more of an all-weather car.