The Dodge Viper GTS Coupe
The GTS coupe is basically a hardtop Viper. The GTS Coupe was introduced by Chrysler in about the summer of 1996. The engine is a reworked version of the RT/10 V10. This work includes new block, new heads, shorter cooling jackets, a new cam and higher compression that allow for a top speed of 185 mph, 15 mph more than the RT/10. All this, and not to mention this on is "weather-proof." MSRP = $66,500.
Dodge Viper GTS-R
After a 20-year absence from the racing circuit, Chrysler Corporation is back on track with a full-scale motorsport effort in its production-based Viper GTS-R. The racing V-10s, assembled by Caldwell Development, will be available in three forms. The standard "club" V-10 doesn't need many changes to make its 525 horsepower: just a racing camshaft with more lift and duration, and Borla headers. The "endurance" engine includes those changes, plus there's a velocity-stack intake manifold with ported heads, solid-lifter roller rockers, higher-rate valve springs, and chrome-moly Carillo connecting rods. Output is 650 horsepower. The "sprint" engine, at 700 horsepower, is an endurance engine with larger valves, an even more aggressive camshaft, and valvetrain changes that allow a higher 7000-plus-rpm redline. The transmission, for example, is a racing version of the Viper's Borg-Warner T-56 six-speed. The rear differential is a big Dana 60 with an aluminum case, specifically designed for the Viper GTS-R's tremendous torque (more than 650 pound-feet on the optional engines). The shock absorbers resemble Indy-car Konis, the steering rack is the Viper's stock TRW with revised valving, and the brakes from Brembo are whoppers--eight titanium pistons per caliper at the front, four-piston calipers at the rear, grasping either carbon-fiber or cast-iron discs. Michelin stepped in with custom Pilot SX racing slicks. There's also a Tilton carbon-fiber triple-disc clutch and eight-pound flywheel (versus 32 pounds for the stock Viper). The center-lock three-piece BBS wheels have cast-magnesium centers. Goodyear racing tires will also be tested and offered. MSRP = starts at $200,000, and to get one, you have to have a race team and special insurance