Jalopnik: dodge viper

Dodge Sends Off Viper With Two Limited-Edition Models, More On Way

Sam Smith — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST

Dodge unveiled two limited-production Viper ACRs at L.A.. One is designed to commemorate the car's recent record-breaking lap of Laguna Seca; the other is just there to remind you that the Viper has a bigger pants bulge than you do.

The two ACRs you see here are the first of a handful of special-edition models scheduled for 2010. The black and silver car is dubbed the Vooodoo Edition (no, that's not a typo); it's little more than a unique striping package and a hyper-exclusive production run (ten cars only). The red and black car in the gallery is the 1:33 Edition; it's named in reference to the ACR's Laguna lap record, and it features red-stitched seats, black center console trim, and an instrument cluster highlighted in red. Just thirty-three 1:33s will be built.

In related news, ordinary Vipers see a host of minor changes for the model's final year. The ACR receives new wing endplates, a revised wing profile, and a short-throw shift lever. All Vipers get a taller fifth gear and new color options. (Interestingly, the former is claimed to reduce the car's zero-to-200-mph time by a staggering fourteen seconds. If you have to go, you might as well do it with a bang.)

Dodge Viper SRT10® Lives On As The Ultimate American Sports Car

* Last model year for current generation Dodge Viper
* More exclusive than ever before with more than 7,600 possible appearance combinations available for limited production run of 500 cars
* Two new exterior colors, including Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat
* New wider, dual racing stripe pattern
* Revised fifth gear ratio
* New wing endplate and revised wing profile on American Club Racer (ACR) model
* Short-throw shifter on ACR model
* Various special, limited-edition models available across 2010 lineup

Auburn Hills, Mich., Dec 2, 2009 -

To celebrate the final production year of the current generation Dodge Viper SRT10, Dodge plans to deliver a vehicle lineup like no other since the introduction of the iconic American sports car in 1992.

At the heart of the 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 remains the venerable 8.4-liter (510 cu. in.) V-10 engine that produces 600 (450 kW) horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. (760 N•m) of torque. Benchmark performance numbers, including 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds, quarter-mile time in the mid 11-second range and 0-100-0 mph in 11 seconds flat, and a top speed of 202 mph, continue to prove how the serious, race-inspired, street-legal two-seater performs without apology.

Body style offerings remain unchanged with the availability of Roadster and Coupe models along with the ACR (American Club Racer) package. Approximately 500 vehicles will be built for the 2010 model year.

With the introduction of two new exterior colors–Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat–Dodge Viper SRT10 is now available in 12 different colors – the most regularly available choices in one model year. And with six stripe options in the new wider configuration, five different interior color combinations, four different wheel choices and three available interior bezels; the 2010 Viper SRT10 will be available in more than 7,600 combinations–the most for any one model year–significantly adding to the exclusivity of each car like never before.

New across the Viper lineup is a shorter fifth gear ratio (changing from 0.74 to 0.80) for improved high-speed acceleration and higher straightaway speeds. Acceleration from 0-200 mph has improved by 14 seconds. This improvement is a direct result of the Chrysler Group LLC Street and Racing Technology team's experience at the 12.9-mile Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit in Germany where during the lap-record run in 2008, it was found that a revised gear ratio would have resulted in higher top gear acceleration and a quicker lap time.

The Viper SRT10 channels its power through a ZF Sachs twin-disc clutch that reduces rotating inertia by 18 percent, reduces clutch-pedal effort and improves engagement feel. Transferring power to the rear wheels is a heavy-duty six-speed manual transmission.

Stopping power is another carefully developed part of the Viper SRT10 equation, with 14-inch brake rotors gripped by Brembo 44/40 dual-opposing piston calipers in the front and Brembo 42/38 dual-opposing calipers in the rear. This system results in world-class braking performance of 60-0 mph in less than 100 feet.

Interior color options for 2010 include: standard black, two-tone black and red with red accent stitching, two-tone black and blue with blue accent stitching, two-tone black and medium slate grey with medium slate grey accent stitching and the two-tone black and natural tan with premium tan Nappa leather seats, tan center console, lower instrument panel and door panels introduced for the 2009 model year. On the Roadster model, the black and tan package includes a matching tan cloth convertible top.

Viper SRT10 ACR

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR receives a new short-throw shifter in 2010 for enhanced driver experience and better performance. The rear wing profile and end plates are redesigned to further optimize the vehicle aerodynamics and improve rear yaw downforce. These changes combined with the new fifth gear ratio result in an increased top speed of 4 mph (to 184 mph for the ACR model).

The enhanced four-wheel independent suspension features high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, KW suspension with two-way adjustable competition coil-over shock absorbers with remote reservoirs.

The aerodynamic package features a carbon fiber "fanged" splitter in front and adjustable carbon-fiber wing with seven-position stanchions that allow up to an amazing 1,000 lbs. of downforce at 150 mph. Lightweight wheels, two-piece slotted StopTech brake rotors and Michelin PS Cup tires round out the Dodge Viper ACR package.

New Special, Limited-edition Models

Numerous special, limited-edition models are planned for the 2010 model year, including the Dodge Viper ACR 1:33 Edition, which will pay tribute to the new production car lap record set on Nov. 24 at Laguna Seca raceway. The unique two-tone Black Clear Coat/Red Clear Coat exterior color scheme on this model is the opposite form of the original Viper ACR. Interior highlights include piano black console bezels with red gauge highlights complemented with red accent stitching in the seats. Only 33 cars will be produced as 1:33 Edition Viper ACR models.

The 2010 Vooodoo-edition Viper ACR will feature an all Black Clear Coat exterior with a Graphite Driver's Stripe outlined in red. Only 10 cars will be produced with the unique striping on both the exterior, as well as on the steering wheel.

Additional special edition models will be announced closer to their individual introductions. Pricing on the 2010 Dodge Viper lineup also will be announced at a later date.

2010 Dodge Viper ACR Debuts At Laguna Seca, Sets Lap Record

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:30:00 EST

According track-side sources, the 2010 Dodge Viper ACR has set a new unofficial lap record at Laguna Seca of 1:33.944 as the final year production cars make their debut. At least they're going out with a bang.

[via Edmunds Inside Line Twitter Feed]

Upside Down, The Viper Logo Looks Like Daffy Duck

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST

Perhaps the hidden reason the Dodge Viper is being killed is because the tail logo on the latest redesign looks like a duck when turned upside down, and we all know about the Italian's irrational hatred of ducks. [Reddit]

Dodge Viper Dead Again, New Fiat Alliance Product To Replace In Summer 2012

Matt Hardigree — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:37:41 EST

Chrysler will only build another 500 Dodge Vipers. An all-new sports car will arrive for the summer of 2012 using Fiat team (Alfa?) resources. [@RayWert]

Viper Driver Great At Showboating, Not At Braking

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EDT

We've all seen it before; an exotic car driver showing off by weaving in-and-out of traffic like a moron. The clip of a Chilean Viper driver shows the ending we always secretly want to see. [WreckedExotics]

What’s This Engine Bay: Engine Swap Edition

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:40:00 EDT

It's time again to test your automotive intellectual fortitude by figuring out what car this engine bay's from before you click through. Sure, you'll say you got it right in the comments, but only you'll know the truth.

This one was particularly challenging as that Viper V10 was quite obviously not originally intended for the rusty and upright engine bay it currently rests in. The perceptive among you would have noted the shape of the firewall, location of the wiper motor, the fresh air intake and the dual hinge links and maybe, just maybe, if you've got the skill you'd have put it together and guessed correctly, a 1956 Ford F-100 pickup — the sleepiest sleeper we've seen since the Oklahoma Farm Truck.

[The Real JDM, (ironically)]

Twelve Awesome Pace Cars

Matt Hardigree — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:45:00 EDT

The only way to guarantee you're out at front in any race is to be in a pace car. We've picked out these twelve best featured below with the help of our readers.

Check out the pace cars that got the checkered flag by clicking next.

Vehicle: 1989 Turbo Pontiac Trans Am
Racing Series: Indy 500
Suggested By: JoshRogan and others
Why It's Awesome: To quote srbiff: "You bet your ass! This was the best of the Grand National presented in an aerodynamic body with no speed limiter. Sure, it wasn't a V-8 Trans Am, but it would completely destroy any of those on the track or strip. Fantastic car. Another must have. Dammit, I'm now up to 3 must haves."

Vehicle: 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser
Racing Series: Indy 500
Suggested By: PDQ2
Why It's Awesome: The Turnpike Cruiser is one of the nicest Mercury two-doors ever and the pace car convertible is the nicest of the turnpikes. As the top-o-the-line Merc it came standard with a peppy little 368 V8 and glittery yellow trim.

Vehicle: Lamborghini Marzal
Racing Series: F1 (Monaco GP)
Suggested By: Mr_Sives_Remotoc
Why It's Awesome: Though purely a concept car, this Bertone-penned Lambo was a four-seater with ginormous gullwing doors. The car was never built, but one look at an Espada demonstrates that the design did not go to waste. Also, it was driven around the Monaco GP by Princess Grace and her husband. Double win!

Vehicle: Dodge Viper
Racing Series: Indy 500
Suggested By: McLawdog
Why It's Awesome: The public debut of the production Viper occurred at Indy, Westminster Kennel Club of pace cars. The raucous V10-powered car was inspired by the original Shelby cars and was, appropriately, driven by none other than Carroll Shelby himself. It lacks much in the way of adornments because it wasn't supposed to be the Indy 500 pace car...

Vehicle: Dodge Stealth Indy 500 Pace Car
Racing Series: Indy 500
Suggested By: Mr. Dude
Why It's Awesome: Oh yes, why did the Viper become the Indy 500 pace car? Originally, the Dodge Stealth was slated to do pacing duties. Why didn't it happen? A bunch of nutty nationalists put the kibosh on the idea of a Japanese-built Indy 500 car. The good old days.

Vehicle: VW Constellation Pace Truck
Racing Series: Brazilian Truck Racing
Suggested By: FTGDMissesTheCruise
Why It's Awesome: As if the Brazilian Truck Racing series wasn't awesome enough, the mean-looking VW Constellation works because it's one of (if not the) biggest safety/pace trucks of all time.

Vehicle: Studebaker Lark Pace Car
Racing Series: Indy 500
Suggested By: Van Sarockin
Why It's Awesome: What the heck is a Studebaker Lark doing as the pace car of one of the fastest races in 'Merica? Well, initially the Stude-ly compact was not the intended choice. The much faster Avanti was to set the pace but wasn't finished in time. Thus was born one of the stranger Indy 500 pace cars in recent memory.

Vehicle: AMX Turbo PPG Pace Car
Racing Series: PPG Indy Car World Series
Suggested By: Maymar
Why It's Awesome: The AMX Turbo pace car was thrown together with a turbocharged and fuel-injected inline-six putting out 450 HP. It was a fitting end to the unique and wonderful, if still ungainly and unloved, AMX.

Photo Credit: Automotive Traveler

Vehicle: Lamborghini Countach Pace Car
Racing Series: F1 (Monaco GP)
Suggested By: Qutaiba_Elleel
Why It's Awesome: It's a Lamborghini Countach, one of the sleekest vehicles of the 1980s. Throw on the least aerodynamic lightbar ever and it's a jewel.

Vehicle: The Tumbler
Racing Series: NASCAR
Suggested By: Gwai.Lo
Why It's Awesome: It's the Batmobile pacing a race. What more do you need to know? Though this was purely for a first lap as "honorary" pace car, the Batman Begins 400 is still the strangest looking pace car of all time. Plus, when things get a bit boring, the Tumbler can always launch a few rockets into pit lane.

Vehicle: Chevy XT-2
Racing Series: PPG Indy Car World Series
Suggested By: Us
Why It's Awesome: This was a front-engined, RWD camino-style truck built on the F-body platform with a Corvette suspension and the 4.5-liter V6 good for 360 HP and 315 lb-ft of twist. Not bad. It also featured the tuned port injection feature, which provided more power and efficiency than a carburated engine. Most importantly, it looked awesome. Sort of a futuristic cab-forwardesque ute type vehicle with awful 90s purple paint, flying buttresses and a lightbar embedded into the edge of the roof.

Vehicle: 1972 Hurst/Olds Cutlass
Racing Series: Indy 500
Suggested By: Marauder Fan
Why It's Awesome: When GM decided to nix any engines bigger than 400 cubic inches in any of its intermediate-sized vehicles, Hurst stepped in and started dropping 455 Tornado engines into Oldsmobiles. In 1972, after a tragic pace car accident in the previous year, none of the major manufacturers wanted to offer up a car. Once again, Hurst stepped in, and the 72 Hurst/Olds Cutlass "executive hot rod" was the perfect choice and the only Indy 500 vehicle not sponsored by an automobile manufacturer.

Photo Credit: Corvair_Owner

Devon GTX: 650 HP Viper In Disguise

Ray Wert — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 10:30:00 EDT

The Devon GTX, revealed yesterday at Pebble Beach, is a 650 HP V10-powered super car from LA-based industrial design house Devon Motorworks. If the $500,000 car looks familiar, it should. It's based on the Dodge Viper SRT/10. Gallery below.

It makes sense that despite Scott Devon's $5.5 million losing bid for the Viper brand, he'd still go ahead with making a re-skinned version to resell. And what a beauty this re-skin is. Especially when the GTX is equipped with the same 8.4-liter (510 cubic inches) V10 engine — plus some performance add-ons to help it to produce 650 HP (484.7 kW) at 6100 rpm. The V10 engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission and will go on sale in 2010 with an annual production of 36 units.

It's got an almost entirely carbon fiber superstructure and a bold, sweeping design that really takes the Dodge Viper to a whole new place. We're kinda digging it.

One of the coolest things is the actuation of almost all articulating elements on the GTX enabled by the incorporation of sensory touch switchwork. The touch-actuated switchwork gives the car a very clean and uninterrupted surface found outside the GTX.

Want more information? Check out Devon's site.

Next Viper Could Get Ferrari V10

Wes Siler — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EDT

Car and Driver reports Chrysler's new masters at Fiat are considering turning Viper into a halo brand for Dodge. More models mean more engines; first could be a V10 based on Ferrari's next-gen V8. [CarandDriver]

The Dodge Viper ACR's Wing Is Really Strong

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 13:30:00 EDT

The hollow composite wing on the Dodge Viper ACR is made of only four layers of carbon fiber top and bottom, but, as this press photo demonstrates, it ain't no Pep Boys special. [Composite World]

The Dodge Viper Is Alive!

Ray Wert — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 18:01:00 EDT

We were the first to report the Dodge Viper was dead before Chrysler actually killed it. Now, like a zombie from a time before fuel economy, it's back. That's right, Chrysler's telling us today the Dodge Viper will live on!

That's right, Chrysler's announced today production will continue on the legendary Dodge Viper SRT10. The automaker, which is also back from the dead, will also shelve plans to sell the Viper program. Here's the full press release with all the details.

Dodge Viper SRT10 Will Live On
Auburn Hills, Mich., Jul 10, 2009 - Chrysler Group LLC announced today that production will continue for the legendary Dodge Viper SRT10.

Originally slated to cease production in December 2009, the Chrysler Group Conner Avenue Assembly Plant - the exclusive home of Dodge Viper production since 1995 - will continue to build the V-10 powered sports car. Chrysler Group is no longer pursuing a sale of the Viper business assets.

"The Dodge Viper has successfully captured the hearts and imagination of performance enthusiasts around the globe," said Mike Accavitti, President and Chief Executive Officer, Dodge Brand. "We're extremely proud that the ultimate American-built sports car with its world-class performance will live on as the iconic image leader for the Dodge brand."

Introduced as a concept car in 1989 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Dodge Viper was designed and engineered to test public reaction to the concept of a back-to-basics, high-performance, limited production sports car.

The reaction was so overwhelming that customer orders began to flow in even before the auto show was over. Chrysler Corporation immediately decided to determine the production feasibility on transforming the crowd-pleasing Dodge Viper show car into a limited-production sports car in no more than three years.

In May 1990, after months of intensive study and testing, Chrysler Corporation announced that the Dodge Viper, powered by an aluminum V-10 was a "go."

Dodge Viper production began in May 1992 at the New Mack Assembly Plant and was moved to Conner Avenue in October 1995. Viper V-10 engine production transferred from Mound Road Engine to Conner Avenue Assembly in May 2001. In 2008, Dodge introduced the all-new, fourth generation Dodge Viper SRT10. With more horsepower, more torque and more than 30 exterior and interior color combinations, the latest Viper gives enthusiasts the performance they expect on the track and off, with more factory customization options than before.

For 2009, the Dodge Viper SRT10 offers outrageous power, with an 8.4-liter, 600-horsepower (450 kW) V-10 engine contributing to blistering acceleration (0-60 mph in less than four seconds, 0-100-0 mph in the low 12-second range), setting an American sports car benchmark.

To date, more than 25,000 Dodge Vipers have been built.

About Chrysler Group LLC
Chrysler Group LLC, formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat Group, produces Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Mopar® and Global Electric Motors (GEM) brand vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler's culture of innovation – first established by Walter P. Chrysler in 1925 – and Fiat's complementary technology – from a company whose heritage dates back to 1899.

Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group LLC's product lineup features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300, Jeep Wrangler and Dodge Ram. Fiat will contribute world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-sized cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including environmentally friendly vehicles.

About Dodge
With a work-hard, play-hard attitude, the Dodge brand continues to offer a full line of cars, trucks, SUVs, commercial vehicles and a sales-leading, fifth-generation minivan in 2009. Dodge will soon add to its award-winning Ram lineup with the introduction of its all-new 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty trucks.

Dodge introduced several new vehicles last year, including the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey, the 2009 Dodge Challenger and the 2009 Dodge Ram. Dodge also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the minivan during the 2009 model year. With more than 65 minivan-firsts introduced since 1983 and more than 12 million Dodge and Chrysler minivans sold, Chrysler Group LLC has solidified its leadership in the segment. The 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan continues to set the mark in minivan value with more than 40 new or improved features from the previous generation, including unsurpassed 17 city / 25 highway mpg fuel economy. The 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is also the first minivan in the segment to feature the all-new Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path advance safety systems.

Also in 2008, the Dodge Journey entered key volume markets outside North America, joining the Dodge Avenger, Nitro and Caliber. Dodge Caliber was the highest sales volume vehicle for the company outside North America in 2008.

Dodge Viper Factory First To Reopen After Chrysler Bankruptcy

Ray Wert — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 07:40:00 EDT

Good news. Chrysler's emerged from bankruptcy and even before being fully embraced by Fiat's bountiful Italian bosom, they've already reopened their first plant — the 115-employee Conner Assembly in Detroit charged with building the apparently-not-yet-dead Dodge Viper. [CNN]

Devon GTX Heading To Pebble Beach Despite Losing Viper Bid

Wes Siler — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EDT

The Devon GTX was supposed to be based on the Dodge Viper. Unfortunately, Scott Devon's $5.5 million bid for the Viper brand and factory was turned down. What can he use instead?

All Viper assets, including the name and production facility have been turned over to Fiat, but the Italian automaker hasn't announced any plans to continue the brand or vehicle beyond Chrysler's plan to kill it in 2011.

Right now, Devon doesn't have anything to put under the GTX's sexy bodywork. Designed by Daniel Paulin, it's heavily based on the Paulin VR concept. Expect to see a concept at Pebble Beach in August, but without the Viper platform and 8.0-liter V10 it's just a body. In order to reach production, Devon needs to find an existing platform that's already been crash-tested and certified for sale in America. Will he use a Corvette platform? What about the Panoz Esparante? What else is there? [Devon Motor Works]

20 Most Expensive Cars To Insure For 2009

The Auto Insider — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 17:15:00 EDT

A cost many forget when buying a new car is that with different cars come different insurance prices. Want to know why? We'll show you with this list of the 20 most expensive cars to insure for 2009.

The folks at Insure.com put together the following list of the most expensive cars to insure, and rather than just regurgitating that list, we've given each some analysis explaining why they cost so dang much to protect it and you from, you know, stuff.

[via thecarconnection, edmunds, insure.com]

20.) Mercedes SL-Class

Price: $98,500
Cost To Insure: $1,577
Curb Weight: 4220 lbs
Engine Displacement: 5.5 liter V8
HP: 382
TQ: 391
Top Speed: 155

Driver Stereotype: Country club golfing tycoon

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: The amount of insurance claims every year have been on the rise with the Mercedes SL, the majority of which involve dented hoods by way of errantly swung golf clubs.

19.) BMW X6
Price: $66,650
Cost To Insure: $1,584
Curb Weight: 5269 lbs
Engine Displacement: 4.4 liter V8
HP: 400
TQ: 450
Top Speed: n/a

Driver Stereotype: Stay-at-home soccer moms

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: The ugly and confusing nature of the BMW X6 design has confused many a folk to think they need to kill it with fire, unfortunately at the expense of a much higher insurance premium. Bummer.

18. Honda S2000
Price: $34,995
Cost To Insure: $1,587
Curb Weight: 2864 lbs
Engine Displacement: 2.2 liter inline-four
HP: 237
TQ: 162
Top Speed: n/a

Driver Stereotype: Track day / autocross rat or mid-life crisis'er

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: We've heard multiple claims of VtEc Yo! drove the price up on these nimble little guys especially when driven under anger at the track.

17. Cadillac Escalade EXT
Price: $61,130
Cost To Insure: $1,592
Curb Weight: 5990 lbs
Engine Displacement: 6.2 liter V8
HP: 403
TQ: 417
Top Speed: n/a

Driver Stereotype: Rap super star / drug-running thugs

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: The desire to have an Escalade in hip-hop and rap videos has caused an unjust amount of claims due to shitty music permanently affixed to the interiors, resulting in a total loss.

16. Land Rover Range Rover
Price: $77,675
Cost To Insure: $1,603
Curb Weight: 5698 lbs
Engine Displacement: 4.4 liter V8
HP: 305
TQ: 325
Top Speed: 121

Driver Stereotype: Bug eye sunglasses-wearing trophy wife

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: Too many nose and breast enhancements have resulted in over swelling of the chest and face, blocking access to cell phones and ultimately causing a record number of single vehicle accidents in the Range Rover.

15. Audi R8
Price: $114,200
Cost To Insure: $1,637
Curb Weight: 3605 lbs
Engine Displacement: 4.2 liter V8
HP: 420
TQ: 317
Top Speed: 187

Driver Stereotype: Modest Wall St. U.S. economy killer

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: When the economy collapsed, brokers rushed to trade in their Lamborghinis in order to pick up the less conspicuous Audi R8. When the public found out they had merely put a wolf in sheep's clothing, all hell broke loose resulting in AIG-crippling insurance claims.

14. Cadillac XLR
Price: $86,215
Cost To Insure: $1,694
Curb Weight: 3647 lbs
Engine Displacement: 4.6 liter V8
HP: 320
TQ: 310
Top Speed: n/a

Driver Stereotype: Bought the crappy Alante, needed updated crappy Cadillac convertible

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: Large amounts of owners have tried to show off the automatic folding roof in their garages causing both vehicle and residential claims. Tools.

13. BMW M3
Price: $57,850
Cost To Insure: $1,714
Curb Weight: 3704 lbs
Engine Displacement: 4.0 liter V8
HP: 414
TQ: 295
Top Speed: 155

Driver Stereotype: Typically a prick with an ego

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: Excess amounts of hair gel, collar popping, orange skin and overly bright white teeth have caused many severe accidents due to the dry heaving by oncoming drivers and the subsequent loss of their bodily functions and vehicular control.

12. Jaguar XK
Price: $77,200
Cost To Insure: $1,717
Curb Weight: 3651 lbs
Engine Displacement: 5.0 liter V8
HP: 300
TQ: 310
Top Speed: 155

Driver Stereotype: Grey-haired Florida dweller

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: The lack of vertical mobility that Grandpa exhibits seems to have gotten plenty like him stuck in the tight Jag, causing emergency crews to use the jaws of life to cut the roofs for extraction.

11. Chevrolet Cobalt SS
Price: $23,425
Cost To Insure: $1,762
Curb Weight: 2926 lbs
Engine Displacement: 2.4 liter turbo inline-four
HP: 260
TQ: 260
Top Speed: n/a

Driver Stereotype: GM faithful in need of SRT4 competitor

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: Many a Cobalt SS has been lost by its owner, likely getting mixed in with the multitude of other base Cobalts that all look the same, never to be seen or heard from again.

10. Porsche 911
Price: $76,300
Cost To Insure: $1,819
Curb Weight: 3120 lbs
Engine Displacement: 3.6 liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder
HP: 345
TQ: 288
Top Speed: 186

Driver Stereotype: Doctor, Lawyer, Deli Owner

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: Insurance fraud is exceedingly becoming more and more prevalent since it's the only way owners will be able to afford the next iteration of the 911 that Porsche seems to release on a bi-annual basis.

9. Lexus IS-F
Price: $56,760
Cost To Insure: $1,881
Curb Weight: 3780 lbs
Engine Displacement: 5.0 liter V8
HP: 416
TQ: 371
Top Speed: n/a

Driver Stereotype: Goes against the grain / hates German sports sedans

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: Simply put; The beige Camry's are NOT happy with this car.

8. Hummer H2
Price: $63,090
Cost To Insure: $1,912
Curb Weight: 6614 lbs
Engine Displacement: 6.2 liter V8
HP: 393
TQ: 415
Top Speed: n/a

Driver Stereotype: Gas guzzling, global warming douche

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: While driving on the polar ice caps, many Hummers have fallen into the sea due to the rapidly melting ice, effectively causing a global climate change and heavily padding Al Gore's pockets.

7. BMW M5
Price: $85,500
Cost To Insure: $2,020
Curb Weight: 4012 lbs
Engine Displacement: 5.0 liter V10
HP: 500
TQ: 383
Top Speed: 155

Driver Stereotype: Bigger prick than M3 owner, but can afford to be

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: A BMW M3 owners father. See M3 analysis.

6. Audi S8
Price: $96,200
Cost To Insure: $2,071
Curb Weight: 4586 lbs
Engine Displacement: 5.2 liter V10
HP: 450
TQ: 398
Top Speed: 155

Driver Stereotype: Wealthy, but not ostentatious

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: Too many drivers pretend they're Jason Statham in the Trasporter films. Need we say more?

5. Mercedes G-Class
Price: $100,250
Cost To Insure: $2,088
Curb Weight: 5510 lbs
Engine Displacement: 5.5 liter V8
HP: 382
TQ: 391
Top Speed: n/a

Driver Stereotype: Urban jungle explorer / poser

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: The U.S. military continues to mistake the G-Class as one with terrorist intent resulting in an overly large number of them being blown to smithereens by Homeland Security forces.

4. Ford Shelby GT500
Price: $43,125
Cost To Insure: $2,186
Curb Weight: 3920 lbs
Engine Displacement: 5.4 liter supercharged V8
HP: 500
TQ: 480
Top Speed: n/a

Driver Stereotype: Redneck with lottery money

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: Rednecks + High Power = Carnage. 'Nuff said.

3. BMW M6
Price: $102,100
Cost To Insure: $2,236
Curb Weight: 3909 lbs
Engine Displacement: 5.0 liter V10
HP: 500
TQ: 383
Top Speed: 155

Driver Stereotype: Gas station owner's fake bake tanned brother

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: A BMW M5 owners brother and M3 owners uncle. See both M3 and M5 analysis.

2. Dodge Viper SRT-10
Price: $88,590
Cost To Insure: $2,446
Curb Weight: 3430 lbs
Engine Displacement: 8.4 liter V10
HP: 600
TQ: 560
Top Speed: 200

Driver Stereotype: Compensation for the little things in life

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: When the women that get picked up in Vipers realize the owners "shortcomings" they've been known to swiftly and violently act out their revenge, usually with buckets of paint to the interior and a bouquet of keys to the exterior.

1. Nissan GT-R
Price: $79,090
Cost To Insure: $2,533
Curb Weight: 3814 lbs
Engine Displacement: 3.8 liter turbo V6
HP: 480
TQ: 430
Top Speed: 193

Driver Stereotype: Gran Turismo-playing, web 2.0, dot com'er

Jalopnik Insurance Cost Analysis: Massive damage and the loss of hundreds of GT-Rs have occurred when owners realized they could not in fact ride the walls around turns, drive through other cars or reset the game.

840 HP Viper-Powered GTA Spano Has Generic Super Car Skin

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 04 May 2009 15:15:00 EDT

The GTA Spano's another super car you can add to the list of vehicles you'll never own because of a rather pedestrian appearance. However, the stonkin' 840 HP 8.3-liter Viper engine does pique our interest.

The Dodge Viper's 8.3-liter V10 normally cranks out a pretty sad 510 HP and 535 lb-ft of torque, but GTA has massaged the monster mill to produce a prodigious 780 HP on high octane and a mind-bending 840 HP if its sipping ethanol. That dollop of organ-crushing engine is mounted in a unique chassis constructed of carbon fiber, kevlar and titanium which is unfortunately draped in body-work so supercar-generic your local constable won't even notice as you go 0-62 MPH in 2.9 seconds and hit a top speed of 217 MPH. Come to think of it, why aren't more supercar builders taking this route?

Main features
* Amazing design
* Development of several world patents
* Chassis made out of carbon fibre, titanium and Kevlar
* The only car in the world, built from materials based on aeronautical technology
* The fastest and most powerful automobile built in Spain for commercial purposes
* Glass roof with its exclusive lighting and opaqueness system
* V10 Engine, 8,3 litres and 780 hp, and 840 hp in the bioethanol version (optional)
* Fully equipped
* Manual sequence gearbox, automatic sequential with paddle shift or manual in H
* Exclusively guaranteed with only 99 models manufactured

Project

After 15 years of top automobile motorsport, five years ago GTA Motor decided to go one step forward and make director Domingo Ochoa´s dream come true; build a super sports car that combines all the automobile technology with perfect, sportsmanship, elegance and exclusivity.

So, Ochoa, with more that 30 year´s experience in the automobile sector, Ochoa set the basis to accomplish his project, a leading Spanish super sport car in an attempt to combine the select and reduced club of handicraft constructors.

The technological experience and the development of applied innovations, became the basic factor of this project, and contributed revolutionary technical solutions in the automobile sector.

The use of new technologies in several components led to a more ecological product than other, similar products presently in the market. GTA intends to convert this technological transfer into a launching point for a new pioneering automobile industry in Spain.

Designed by GTA Motor´s engineering director, Valencian-born Sento Pallardó, the GTA Spano boasts the most advanced technology, innovative aesthetics, studied aerodynamics and a good number of solutions for the future, all of which are capable of competing with international prestigious brands in terms of image and performance.

As a sign of its exclusivity, only 99 models of this extraordinary super sport car will be built to order and several world patents have been obtained. Indeed it is a car that is the beginning of an industry wich leads to job creation and also to the transfer of the resulting technology to other sectors of society.

Design

GTA Motor´s design department , directed by Sento Pallardó, has striven to create an unique automobile that does not resemble other cars in any way. In this way, a preliminary design has been evolving until the present-day, which has succeeded in combining sportsmanship, elegance and exclusivity in a single concept. In other words, a very different style to that which currently exists in the international automobile scene.

One of Spano´s main distinguishing characteristics lies in its lateral view, where the doors fit perfectly into the air intakes, which apart from performing an aerodynamic function, refrigerate elements such as oil coolers, power-assisted steering and brakes, among others. Its design is original, never seen to date, this being yet another distinguishing mark of Concept. As in all true sports cars, the doors have not door frames.

Access to the interior is accomplished by pressing the GTA logotype, rendering it, a more elegant design without the traditional handles.

In its frontal view affords it with a strong personality along with its two large lateral air intakes nd its convex bonnet, completed with an aerodynamic streamlining zone to facilitate the air flow, providing it with an athletic look.

At the rear, the design department has attempted to create the best way to channel the air that flows under the car. The resulting effect is a rear design with plenty of character, marked by the use of glass, which has small openings that perform a refrigeration function for the engine. The wing fits perfectly into the design with under air channeling, while the two air intakes and the twin exhaust system emphasise the vehicle´s sport character. There is a rear barrel to channel air and to improve the aerodynamic load.

The design for the wing mirrors has been a framework with carbon fibre finished with a wing-like arm, built in aeronautical mechanised aluminium.

The large glazed surface, affords the vehicle a strong quality, which is another of its distinguishing traits. The vehicle has a patented system of interior lighting and liquid crystal shading and the degree if light required inside may be regulated. Its completely novel sun visors are set into the glass and boast the same technology.

The electrically operated windows have been made according to the lastest technology, in such a way that the tracks are maintenance free and work problem free at various temperature.

The wheels, in 19" at the front and 20" at the rear, are characterised by their angular shape. They have been designed specifically for this model. Their design is exclusive for this car with offers a continuousness effect, with the chassis. There is a flat exterior part that performs an aerodynamic function, offering greater resistance and involving less weight.

Interior Design

The interior design has been one of the best kept secrets of the project. High quality materials such as leather and carbon fibre, aluminium and titanium have been used. Ample space is another of its characteristics and a person over 2 meters in height can be seated without problems.

The design of the dashboard feigns the lateral part of the car, and provides the interior wich much character. The instrument panel is distinguished by an LCD screen, which can be personalised according to the customer´s requirements and provides all the necessary information. The steering wheel is made out of carbon sportsmanship of this vehicle. A joystick is located behind the steering wheel to operate elements such as lights wipers and indicators.

One of Spano´s innovations is that it has no central rear-view mirror, rather a rear camera that projects on to an LCD screen which is perfectly located on the dashboard. It also has a large angular camera to facilitate parking maneuvers. This camera automatically connects after locking the rear gear. The interior lights also use LED technology.

The GTA has two boots, one 100 litre one at the front and one 200 litre one at the rear, which are certainly not out of place for an automobile of such characteristics. The front boot has a reverse opening system to make the task of entering luggage easier.

There are also two glove compartments, one located on the co-driver´s side and the other smaller one in the centre compartment. It also has practical compartments in both doors.

The interior colours range varies according to the customer´s preferences.

Equipment

Quality and elegance are the main characteristics of the GTA interior design which is also fully equipped.

• Sport seats
• Electronically regulating seats, with a heating and refrigeration system
• Leather trimmings with GTA anagrams
• ABS
• Wheel driving Control
• An active suspension control system which electronically self regulates and programmes the height of the suspension
• Electronic system powerful control
• Exclusive digital dashboard
• Xenon
• Navigator
• CD charger with MP3
• iPod Connection
• Bluetooth
• Electronically regulating windows
• Air conditioning
• 19" wheels at the front and 20" at the rear
• Exclusively designed 255/35 tyres at the front and 335/30 at the rear
• Carbon ceramic manufactured AP Racing brakes system with 6 piston calipers
• Self-regulation rear wing
• LED Technology
• Electrically regulated of exterior rear view
• Steering wheel with three carbon-made spokes
• Central locking
• Electrical handbrake
• Glass roof with patented lighting and opaqueness system
• Electrical sun visor
• Angular camera for parking maneuvers
• Laminated windscreen and non-frost glass
• Anti theft alarm and GPS location system
• Central locking with distance control
• Remote-controlled boot opening
• Reverse boot opening trunk to make placing luggage inside easier
• Exclusively designed suitcases with GTA anagrams

Engine

GTA has developed a special engine for this car, and has opted for a V10, 8,3 litre engine placed in a longitudinal rear position. It has 780 horsepower and 920 Nw torque. As an extra option, the Concept is also available in a Bioethanol version, which increases the power to 840 hp.

The GTA technicians have worked hard to enhance the compressor, so that GTA achieves amazing performances, at a top speed of over 350 km/h with acceleration from 0 to 100 Km/h in under threee seconds. These figures place it directly among the five fastest cars commercialised in the world. The precision of the engine´s control unit helps the engine to offer and increase in power progressively under all circumstances.

Spano also has an electronic power control system, provided according to customer´s wishes, which regulates power from a minimum of 450 cv to the maximum power.

The gearbox is available in three options, all of which have seven gears: automatically sequential or automatically sequential with a paddle shift steering wheel or manual in H.

Chasis and dynamic performance

The chassis has been one of aspects on which special emphasis has been places while constructing Spano. The most state of the art technologies has been applied to the automobile world, thus achieving Spano to be the first car in the wold with aeronautical components, which makes it a reference in the automobile scene.

The chassis has been built completely out of carbon fibre, titanium and Kevlar, whose a rigidity is four times greater than that of many of the presently commercialised super cars, which offers the best safety level. With this technology, the weight of the monocasc is only 56 kg, while the total weigh is 1350 kg, with all the liquids and the most convenient equipment on board.

Aerodynamics is another of the most important factors to be taken into account when designing GTA. With a CX of 0,35 and a CL of 2,35 with the set rear wing,GTA is one of the best available in this section.

Thanks to its especial chassis outline and the materials used, GTA has a large traction capacity and is easy to drive, which is unlike what one might think of a car whose power is close to 800 hp. In this case, it offers a turn ratio of 10,8 meters to assist driving which makes very impressive maneuverability.

To bring this huge potential to a standstill, GTA´s braking system includes 380 mm diameter carbon ceramic ventilated disc brakes and 6 piston callipers supllied by AP Racing, with pneumatic assistance and ABS. GTA Spano also has a sophisticated traction control system.

The tyres are manufactured exclusively for this car by Pirelli: 255/35 on a 19" front wheel and 330/35 on a 20" rear wheel .

Spano also offers an electronic, programmable self-regulating absorption assistance, which is capable of raising the car by up to 8 cm, to avoid irritating potholes and the regular speed bumps on roads. It also has a twin trapezium suspension, which enables all kinds of regulations.

Distribution

GTA has come to distribution agreements with the most important companies in the world automobile scene. GTA has dealers in countries such as China, United Arab Emirates, USA, Russia, Germany and Italy. Nowadays, pre-agreements in another countries exist with a view to increasing and consolidating the distribution chain.

GTA´s maintenance and after-sales service exclusivity are defined by firms with ample experience which fulfill all the requirements expected by GTA. In short it has sought the maximum quality in all the brand´s actions with no discrimination per geographical area.

Partners

GTA has come to distribution agreements with the most important companies in the world automobile scene. GTA has dealers in countries such as China, United Arab Emirates, USA, Russia, Germany and Italy. Nowadays, pre- agreements in another countries exist with a view to increasing and consolidating the distribution chain.

GTA´s maintenance and after-sales service exclusivity are defined by firms with ample experience wich fulfil all the requirements expected by GTA. In short it has sought the maximum quality in all the brand´s actions with no discrimination per geographical area.

Technical data

ENGINE
Position: Central rear longitudinal
Number of cylinders:. GTA supercharged V10
Cylinder capacity:8.300 cm3
Feed: fuel
Maximum powerful:hp/rpm: 780/6300 840/6250 (Bioethanol)
Torque (nw): 920

CHASIS AND BODYWORK
Structural monocoque used carbon fibre,honeycomb,Kevlar and titanium
Carbon fibre bodywork
Official weight: 1350
Fuel tank (litres):120
Boot: 100 (front) 200 (rear)

DIMENSIONS
Length/Width/Height/Gauge (metres):4,65/1,98/1,20/2,8
TRANSMISSION
Traction: Rear wheel driving
Gearbox: manual sequential with 7 speed, automatically sequential with
paddle shift or manual in H,

SUSPENSION
Double wishbone configuration
Regulating geometrical system
Electronically regulated wing
Wheels: 19 x10 front/20x 13 rear
Tyres; 255/35 ZR19 and 330/35 ZR20
Electronic shock absorber with height regulation
Vehicle height regulation

BRAKES
Carbon-ceramic brake system
Forced ventilation system
6 piston calipers AP Racing
ABS system

AERODYNAMICS
Wind Tunnel Developer ¼ scale model
Floor with lower Venturi tunnels
Maximum stability with minimum cx

PERFORMANCE
Maximum Speed of more than 350 Km/h
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 2,9 seconds

[via WCF]

Delivery Driver Wrecks Mario Andretti's Rare Lamborghini Countach

Matt Hardigree — Fri, 01 May 2009 13:30:00 EDT

According to a post on ToyotaNation, a Lamborghini dealership employee allegedly got into a street race with a Viper GTS while delivering an ultra-rare Lamborghini Countach once owned by Mario Andretti. Guess what happened next?

Here's the scoop from Shoguns, who posted the photos:

This happened on the 45 north feeder road in between Rankin and Richey. Which is about a mile down the road from Lamborghini of Houston. Turns out this car was street racing an 06 Dodge Viper GTS and they both somehow lost control. What makes it even worse is that the lamborghini was previously owned AND SIGNED by Mario Andretti himself! It was a mint condition 1989 25th Anniversary version with less than 6,000 kilometers on the odometer. The car was just purchased from Lamborghini of Houston earlier today and one of the Lambo techs was driving it. He was on his way to deliver it to the new owner that supposedly paid over $100k for it.

We're not surprised. We grew up driving up-and-down this stretch of I-45 and it's not well designed and full of bad drivers in fast cars. What may be worse is the description of the Lambo from the dealership (our emphasis):

Lamborghini Houston is pleased to offer this Ultra Rare 1989 Lamborghini Anniversary Edition Countach with only 5,919 original kilometers in the extremely rare Rosso Siviglia Red over Tan leather. Yes, this was 'race car driver' Mario Andretti's personal car. He has signed the rear wing and his name is still on the Title. It is as close to brand new as possible. This incredible rare collector's Anniversary Countach will be sold quick.
Don't miss this irreplaceable '89 Countach!

Thankfully, the wreck doesn't look to be too severe. We've put a call into Lambo of Houston for full details and they said they would call us back, though they seemed aware of what happened. Below are the full photos of the car from the dealership. Hat Tip to Sean!

[ToyotaNation]

Dodge Viper Burned At The Stake... Again?

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 16:30:00 EDT

Remember the Dodge Viper with "666" license plates which burned to a crisp? The UK's Daily Mail just caught the story... two years after we ran it. But, hey, the pictures are pretty epic.

The fire happened way back in 2007 in Kostroma, Russia, when a group of devout religious types took offense to the "666" mark of the beast license plate and set it on fire. We enjoyed the story when it first came out, and still think it's pretty amusing, though we're sad to see a Viper get it over something so silly. Perhaps Daily Mail should read Jalopnik more often. [Daily Mail]

Chrysler Offers Employee Pricing On Dodge Viper, Extends Deal To Wal-Mart, Cerberus Employees

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EDT

Further bolstering snarky bloggers' ruthless ribbing of Chrysler as a company on the ropes and desperate for any money it can get, the Cerberus-owned brand is extending employee pricing to the Dodge Viper SRT10. Employees, spouses, friends and acquaintances (basically the entire city of Detroit) can get any Viper as long as it isn't the fire-breathing ACR model for the same pricing deal as a Jeep Patriot. Chrysler is even going out and offering that pricing to the 1.2 million employees of ~~Chinese importer~~ retail giant Wal Mart and to Chrysler's bosses at Cerberus. Despite calls to Dodge dealers we've not been able to determine what pricing will be for the V10-powered anti-grocery-getter with the employee deal but it's usually around 3% off the sticker price. With the dearth of Vipers about the crowd America's freeways, we're expecting the number of Nick Bollea-related incidents to skyrocket. Well, as long as any of those people can get a loan.

[Chrysler via Carscoop]

2009 Dodge Viper ACR Steals Nürburgring Record From Corvette ZR1, Laps In 7:22

Mark Arnold — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 08:30:00 EDT

A 2009 Dodge Viper ACR has claimed the fastest time ever for a production car around the Nürburgring. The lap of 7:22 is just a few ticks quicker than the 7:26.4 lap set by the 2009 Corvette ZR1. It doesn't come as much of a surprise, since the ACR is the most brutal version of the already-unforgiving Viper, whereas the ZR1 actually drives well on the road. Nonetheless, the Viper ACR is the new unofficial king of the 'Ring.

If you'd like to compare its on-board video of the record lap to the ZR1's video, check it out over at Motor Trend. Looks like Jim Mero may have to head back to Germany and set that faster lap he was talking about after all. [Motor Trend]

Chrysler May Sell Viper — The Brand

Wes Siler — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:20:00 EDT

Bob Nardelli, Chrysler’s Chairman and CEO, stated this morning that the company has "been approached by third parties who are interested in exploring future possibilities for Viper," according to Automotive News. Apparently, rather than just dropping Viper, Chrysler is now “exploring strategic options” for the Viper brand, meaning they’re trying to figure out how much money they can get for it. It's still unclear what any potential buyer would get: as we exclusively revealed in February, the company has halted Viper development.

"As the Company evaluates strategic options to maximize core operations and leverage its assets, we have agreed to listen to these parties. We will do so keeping in mind the best interests of those who have shown tremendous support for the vehicle- including employees, suppliers, dealers and a worldwide group of loyal Viper owners and enthusiasts,” Nardelli continued, “Viper is an integral part of this Company's heritage. While this is a strategic review, our intent would be to offer strong operational and financial support during any potential transaction, in order to ensure a future for the Viper business and perpetuate the legacy of this great vehicle."

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: Why purchase Viper? Surely the current 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 — a refresh of the 2003 model — is nearing the end of its useful life. Vehicles like the 2009 Nissan GT-R and 2009 Corvette ZR1 now offer considerably greater track performance combined with user friendliness and good road manners. All any potential buyer would receive would be a soon-to-be-outdated car, a brand with an image problem and the need to jump-start development on a replacement. If we were going to get into the supercar game, we’d start a fresh brand with a fresh product, free of the sins of ~~the 1992 Dodge Viper RT/10 convertible~~ its fathers. [Source: Automotive News, Sub. Req.]