SRT have finally dropped the bomb that is the 2013 Viper. After a few weeks of teasing – involving unhelpful line sketches, the background story of the new logo, and sporadic image releases – SRT have officially unveiled the car at the 2012 New York Auto Show.
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
Anyone worried that the Viper’s massive naturally aspirated V10 might have fallen victim to ever tightening emissions regulations should be happy to hear the 2013 SRT Viper is equipped with an upgraded 8.4 litre V10, producing 640 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque. The engine has been treated to a new, ultra-high flow and lightweight composite intake manifold, high-strength forged pistons, sodium-filled exhaust valves, new catalysts to reduce back pressure and an aluminum flywheel that reduces reciprocating losses. The Tremec six-speed manual transmission has been given a shorter throw, closer gear ratios, and a shorter final drive ratio.
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
The 2013 SRT Viper will be offered in two different flavors, the standard high-performance SRT, and a GTS version. Ralph Gilles, President and CEO of SRT said of the standard car: “The SRT Viper model is meant to offer a perfect blend of extreme performance and a deliberate preservation of what has become the iconic DNA of the Viper,” Gilles added. “We strove to deliver a supercar that continues to bring the driver as close as possible to the machine.”
The more expensive SRT Viper GTS features a few advanced technological enhancements over the standard car. Although some may say they detract from the Viper’s raw, simple character. GTS upgrades include a two-mode active suspension system, and additional interior comforts – such as comprehensive leather upholstery, an upgraded audio system, and electric seats – all lacking in the standard car.
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
Aside from the power and technological upgrades over the previous car, the 2013 Viper is also equipped with a chassis which is said to be a full 50 per cent more rigid than its predecessor – mainly because of the massive aluminium “X” brace which spans the engine. Stability and traction control systems come as standard, although both can be turned off completely if required.
Four-piston Brembo brakes with fixed-aluminum calipers, and vented rotors with a diameter of 355 mm by 32 mm, are used at all four corners. The available SRT Track Package features lightweight and slotted two-piece rotors from StopTech.
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
On the inside, the 2013 SRT Viper is more luxurious and refined than before. Standard high-performance racing seats from Sabelt feature a lightweight Kevlar/fiberglass shell. The seating position is 20mm lower than before, and seat travel has been extended by 90 mm overall, allowing for more storage space behind. The instrument cluster was specifically designed for the car, and it features a 7-inch full color customizable display. In the center console is an 8.4 inch touchscreen which controls the infotainment system.
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
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| 2013 SRT Viper GTS |
Stylewise, the 2013 SRT Viper takes plenty of inspiration from its father and grandfather. Although there’s still plenty of new stuff to ogle. Personally I appreciate the return to bulging muscular metalwork over the previous generation’s more angular lines.
Source: SRT
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