2009 Dodge Viper
- 2008 Dodge Viper
- Used Dodge Viper
Based on analysis of 28 Viper reviews and test drives.
Dodge Viper - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Dodge Viper ranks 6 out of 8 Super Luxury Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 28 published reviews and test drives of the Dodge Viper, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Dodge Viper SRT10 produces mind-numbing power but still manages to handle it well. Still, its sparse cabin can't compete with the more comfortable and luxurious vehicles in its class.
If power, speed and handling are what you're all about, then the 2009 Dodge Viper SRT10 is the car for you. But if you can't live without even the most basic of creature comforts, you should look elsewhere. "Explosive power and surprising handling prowess make Dodge's flagship vehicle a thrilling ride," writes Consumer Guide. "Beyond that, though, Viper is an emotional statement that makes little sense as daily transportation. A Chevrolet Corvette or base Porsche 911 mimics its usable street performance at lower cost and with more refinement."
For the 2009 model year, Dodge introduces a track-tuned American Club Racer (ACR) trim, as well as four new exterior colors.
Earlier this year Chrysler LLC, Dodge's parent company, filed for bankruptcy and announced a partnership with Italian automaker Fiat. As Chrysler emerged from bankruptcy, reports were unclear on whether the Viper would remain, be nixed or sold to another automaker. Thankfully, the Dodge Viper lives.
The Viper SRT-10 is available in both coupe and convertible body styles.
- "In terms of performance, the 2009 Dodge Viper reigns supreme among sub-$100K supercars -- and even challenges exotics at twice the price." -- Edmunds
- "The new Viper may not be perfect, but it's perfect for weekend track driving and collecting lusty stares. Creature comforts -- lacking here -- are for the weak and pampered (though the new Viper does offer a navigation system). This car is the best piece of pure American muscle on the road today." -- Detroit News
- "Overall, the Viper is what used to be called 'a man's car,' and when it's gone we may not see its like again. Nothing else is quite like it even now." -- Road and Track
Viper Performance - 8.9 (Very Good)
Test drivers praise the Viper for its rocket-like performance. "The 2009 Dodge Viper is rough, raw, loud and unrefined when compared to other sports cars, and therein lies much of its appeal," writes Edmunds. "As with previous generations, when you pin the gas pedal, you'll be pinned to the seatback. Jam on the brakes and you can feel your internal organs slam against your rib cage." For increased performance, Dodge offers an American Club Racer trim. Read More
Viper Exterior - NA
For better or worse, critics find that people can't stop staring at the Viper's wild -- yet functional -- exterior design. "Looks like a medieval spaceship," writes Car and Driver. Read More
Viper Interior - 6.7 (Mediocre)
Reviewers find that the Viper's competitors offer more luxury and comfort -- but real sports car enthusiasts don't seem to mind. "Not that it makes a difference in a contest where adrenaline matters most, but the Viper -- in the grand Viper tradition -- lacks any sort of creature comforts beyond the ubiquitous air-conditioning and power windows," reports Edmunds. Read More
Viper Safety - NA
The Viper hasn't yet been crash tested by the federal government or insurance industry. What's more, its lack of standard safety features concerns some auto writers. Edmunds writes: "The best safety equipment for the 2009 Dodge Viper isn't included with the car. It's a driver with great skill, preferably with a racing pedigree." Read More
Viper Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2009 Dodge Viper reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Dodge protects the Viper with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Read More
