Viper Returns

Chrysler Group LLC says the new iteration of its iconic Viper sports car, the SRT Viper, will produce 640 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque.

The car, unveiled on Wednesday at the New York auto show, marks the return of a nameplate Chrysler tried unsuccessfully to sell for $10 million in 2009. The previous model went out of production in July 2010.

Chrysler confirmed in December that the Viper would return. The new model, which no longer carries the Dodge brand, sports a chassis with 50% greater torsional stiffness. Much of the improvement comes from new aluminum cross bracing for the front suspension upper mounting points. The car also uses design modifications and new materials to strengthen the chassis while eliminating about 100 lbs.

The engine is now 25 lbs lighter. Its refinements include a composite intake manifold, stronger forged pistons, sodium-filled exhaust valves and a more efficient aluminum flywheel.

Like the previous model, the new Viper's hand-built V-10 is mated to a Tremec six-speed manual. The transmission now has a shorter-throw shift mechanism and closer gear ratios that shorten the final ratio to 3.55 from 3.8 for what Chrysler describes as a "more engaging" high-speed driving experience.

The Viper has enjoyed a reputation for being both powerful and brutish. Chrysler says the new Viper's ride is better controlled, thanks to a re-engineered rear suspension and standard electronic stability and traction control systems. The four-piston Brembo braking system stops better and last longer, according to the company. Standard vented rotors are 355 mm in diameter front and rear. An optional SRT Track Package substitutes lighter, slotted two-piece rotors from StopTech.

Exterior lighting upgrades include dual-function bi-xenon projector headlamps and LED running lamps, turn signals and integrated stop/turn taillamps.

Inside, the floorpan and bulkhead have been extended 3.5 inches to provide more legroom and seat track travel. All interior surfaces are now sewn, wrapped and padded when necessary to improve occupant comfort. The GTS upgrade covers all surfaces with leather.

A revised instrument panel includes a 7-inch customizable-cluster display with large central analog tachometer. The center stack contains an 8.4-inch touchscreen that controls Uconnect-based telematics and media services. Hard keys and traditional knobs are assigned to commonly used functions such as radio volume and AM/FM/satellite selection. Buyers can choose from an array of 32-volt Harman Kardon sound systems, including one with 14 speakers and four subwoofers. Cruise control is available for the first time.