1996 Dodge Viper Venom 600 R/T 10

Description

The original Viper was already meant for hardcore drivers, but it takes the truly top echelon of enthusiasts who want to get near 200 mph in this 1996 Dodge Hennessey Viper Venom 600 R/T 10.

You gotta love the early Viper roadsters. It has a body built for sin with nothing else added into the mix. The giant motor was cloaked in a minimalist swoopy design that earned its snake bitten name. The Summit White paint, and matching white wheels, make this one look like it's trying to appear virgin-ally innocent, but we all know better. If the dual blue racing stripes weren't a dead giveaway, the adjustable rear racing wing is a loud proclamation to how special this Viper really is. Weight is the enemy in this sports car, so there are racing style side curtains and a temporary fabric roof. For those who need a little more security, there is also a double-bubble matching hard top to use that makes this look like its GTS brother.

Inside, it's all about the right equipment for a pure speed machine. The black leather bucket seats keep you planted behind the wheel, and there's no room for sliding around in an interior that completely envelopes the driver. Your arm fits so that your favorite resting spot is right on top of the gear leaver. A full gauge package is at eye level, and the black-on-white background readouts couldn't be simpler. There is room for a bit of luxury such as an AM/FM/CD changer stereo, keyless entry, and air conditioning. There's also a plaque on the dash to remind you that this special Viper was #24 in Hennessey's very limited run.

It was thought that the V10 in the Viper couldn't get any better, but that was until Hennessey Performance got its hands on the motor. The $30,000 Venom 600 package includes a powerplant upgrade, with a .060 bump in bore and .80 in stroke, to a whopping 520 cubic inches. It's reinforced with a 5140 steel crankshaft, 4340 billet-steel connecting rods, 10.0:1 compression forged aluminum pistons and a roller camshaft. The result is a dominating 650 horsepower and 642 lb-ft of torque, and of course, an exhaust rumble that rivals all track cars. This is mated to a six speed manual transmission that then sends power to a Hennessey 3.54 ratio limited-slip rear end for excellent takeoff and acceleration. Traction is not a problem thanks to super-sticky Michelin Pilot Sport tires. But the really good news is this ultimate Viper has averaged less than 1,200 miles per year during its lifetime, and so you know it hasn't spent many Saturday nights teaching lessons to lesser cars.

Buying a Viper from Hennessey in the 90s was like buying a muscle car from Grand Spaulding Dodge in the 60s. This is a roadster that is amazing fun from the start and has a rare pedigree name that will continue to build its ultra desirable status in the classic circles. When you get to the car show you can even bring out the binder with the original window sticker, warranty card, owner's manual, and maintenance records. There's no better modern muscle out there for the price. Call now!!