2003 Dodge Viper: Road Test
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2003 Dodge Viper ▼
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- MSRP: $79,995
- Invoice: $72,471
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Our road test for the 2003 Dodge Viper includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Dodge Viper from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Dodge Viper, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Dodge Viper help you decide if a 2003 Dodge Viper is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 7.7 |
Explosive, even at part-throttle, even from modest rpm. No opportunity yet to time, but Dodge targets under 4 sec 0-60 mph, over 190 mph top speed. Clutch, gearshift demand deliberate action, but are not taxing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 4.8 |
No opportunity to measure yet. Previous test Vipers averaged 12.2-14 mpg. Expect the same of the '03. Premium fuel required.
RIDE QUALITY
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 4.1 |
Never full-out brutal, but always firm and frequently choppy. Can jar if tar strips or pavement seams simultaneously hit both front tires or both rear tires. Impressive absence of structural flex.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 8.6 |
Faithful, nicely weighted steering. Extraordinary width, low center of gravity, steamroller tires provide uncanny grip, race-car response in changes of direction. Suspension pliant enough to keep Viper on course through bumpy corners taken at reasonable speed. Resolute stopping power, fine brake modulation, little discernible nosedive.
QUIETNESS
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 4 |
Big V10 turns only 1400 rpm at 70 mph in 6th gear, so quiet at cruise, but even mild throttle triggers an ear-level roar from side exhaust outlets. Wind, road noise always present, but no more meddlesome than in other high-performance convertibles, top up or down.
CONTROLS
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6 |
Self-evident controls. Generic Dodge audio and climate systems. Instruments have black markings, white faces. Speedometer, fuel gauge suffer sunlight reflections. Rich upholstery, but cabin's only relief from common matte plastic and textured vinyl are some metal trim pieces.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 5.4 |
Cockpit tight for tall or large drivers. Firm, form-hugging seats supportive in turns, but a chore to climb into, out of. Seats have just manual fore/aft and backrake adjustments. Pedal placement awkward; they're close together and offset to left, but power fore/aft adjustment helps. Engine heat turns footwells into ovens--and doorsills are hot to the touch from exhaust pipes within.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 0 | .7 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 2.2 |
A few soft bags fit in trunk. Trunklid must be opened for clearance to raise or lower convertible top. Cabin limited to small center console, dashboard glovebox.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4.6 |
Viper is an emotional statement rendered only slightly rational by the improved 2003 version. A Chevrolet Corvette, base Porsche 911, even the new Ford Mustang Cobra, are cars that mimic its usable street performance at lower cost and with more refinement.
Total Score
| SRT-10 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 38 | 48.1 |
Total Score: 38
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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