Dodge Introduces Viper SRT10 ACR Street-Legal Track Car

Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR
by Brian Potter
November 9, 2007 12:00 PM
Filed Under: American, Dodge, Los Angeles Auto Show

The tenacious gents over at Autoblog.com have busted through with official info of the new Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR (American Club Racer) just ahead of its public debut in a few days at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Not since 1999 has the Viper been outfitted with a street-legal track car package. The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR will arrive in showrooms in the second quarter of 2008 at a MSRP of less than $100,000. Complete pricing information will be released at a later date.

Like any track car, one of the the core objectives is to save weight. And Dodge have done so by concentrating on three areas. The first area focused on unsprung suspension components by using StopTech cross-drilled and slotted brake rotors combined with the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Tires and Sidewinder lightweight forged aluminum wheels. The second area of weight savings was found in the use of carbon fiber aerodynamic components such as an adjustable front splitter and rear wing which was sculpted by using CFD (Computational Fluid dynamics). Both of these areas combined are good for a weight savings of 40 pounds. The third area of savings is found in the optional “Hard Core” package which trims an additional 40 pounds of fat by deleting the audio system, fog lamps, underhood insulator padding, trunk carpet, tire inflater as well as the door speakers replaced with carbon fiber panels. The total combined weight loss is a massive 80 pounds.

No changes are made to the already potent 600hp 8.4-liter aluminum V10, however, the suspension receives KW coilovers that are adjustable in ride height and dampening in addition to a new front stabilizer bar for increased front end stiffness and reduced body roll. For more details see press release below.

More photos at Autoblog.com

Source: Dodge via Autoblog
Press Release (Click to expand)

Even More Viper Venom! Dodge introduces street-legal 2008 Viper SRT10® ACR

  • Dodge delivers ultimate purpose-built, street-legal track car
  • 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10® ACR offers reduced weight, race-ready hardware and competition tuning for optimal on-track performance
  • Aerodynamic improvements, racing suspension and weight savings equal unmatched performance for under $100,000

Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge announced today that the all-new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10® ACR - short for American Club Racer - will make its public debut at next week's Los Angeles Auto Show.

The latest addition to Chrysler LLC's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) family of performance vehicles, the all-new, 600-horsepower 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR is a street-legal Viper engineered to dominate on the race track. Because it is street legal, diehard Viper and track enthusiasts can drive their car to the race track, run it at speed on the track, and then drive it home.

"With the all-new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR, SRT has taken the ultimate American sports car and injected it with an extra dose of racing DNA," said Mike Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand and SRT Marketing and Communications, Chrysler LLC. "With the Viper SRT10 as the starting point, SRT engineered a combination of reduced weight, race-tuned suspension and aerodynamic improvements to create the ultimate Viper for the street and track."

Derived from the all-new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10, the heart and soul of the all-new 2008 Viper SRT10 ACR is SRT's new 8.4-liter aluminum V-10 engine that produces 600 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. of torque.

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR stays true to the five key aspects of SRT: standout powertrain, bold exterior styling, race-inspired interior, benchmark braking, and world-class ride and handling characteristics across a dynamic range.

Bold Exterior Styling
The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR exterior styling cues offer not only bold aesthetics but functional benefits on the track. These include a variable geometry "fanged" front splitter, an adjustable rear wing sculpted by CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics), and optimized front dive planes. These new aerodynamic devices are formed in high-performance autoclaved carbonfiber. By using both unidirectional and woven laminates, the aero equipment is optimized for the minimum possible weight.

The splitter and dive planes feature a clear coated carbonfiber weave on all Viper SRT10 ACR models.

The front splitter includes three removable rub strips that provide protection and wear resistance. Supported by stainless steel tension cables, the splitter is designed to absorb the energy from minor upward deflections.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR aerodynamics are tuned and balanced to maximize downforce and provide increased levels of lateral grip. Each Viper SRT10 ACR also includes a track extension that replaces the center splitter rub strip and fills out the fanged splitter scallop for closed-circuit events. The aerodynamic effect of the track extension is a reduction in overall drag and an increase in front downforce of nearly one third.

The front fog lamps have been deleted and replaced with lightweight filler panels.

The 2008 Viper SRT10 ACR features a signature two-tone paint scheme with a black center section. An optional driver's stripe is available on a two-tone Viper Red or a Viper Black ACR. The driver's stripe also features a sewn leather accent on the steering wheel. A clearcoated exposed weave is featured on the rear carbonfiber wing of all two-tone and driver's stripe Viper SRT10 ACR models.

A standard Viper SRT10 monotone paint scheme is also available featuring a body color rear wing and dual painted Viper stripes.

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR is available in five colors: Viper Red, Viper Black, Viper Violet, Viper Bright Blue Metallic, and Viper Very Orange.

Lightweight forged aluminum Sidewinder wheels are painted gloss black to complete the one-of-a-kind exterior styling.

Race-inspired Interior
Based on the 2008 Viper SRT10 interior, the Viper SRT10 ACR goes a step further to satisfy what racers want: the least weight possible. An optional "Hard Core" package offers maximum weight savings by deleting the audio system, underhood silencer pad, trunk carpet and tire inflator. The radio is replaced by a lightweight cover that can be configured to mount the included lap timer. The door speakers are replaced by lightweight carbonfiber panels. The Hard Core package offers a 40 lb. weight savings and provides ultimate street legal race-ready performance.

World-class Ride and Handling
The all-new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR is specifically modified and tuned for track performance. The ACR suspension includes coil-over racing dampers from KW Suspensions that are adjustable for damping and ride height. The shocks are two-way adjustable without removing the wheels - a timesaver on the track - and they include a large range for compression and rebound. The KW dampers and forks are machined from solid aluminum billet, feature spherical bearing mounts, and are optimized to minimize weight and maximize performance.

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR features a new front stabilizer bar for increased roll-stiffness.

Lightweight forged aluminum Sidewinder wheels are optimized by using Finite Element Analysis to achieve a lower rotating unsprung mass. Finished in gloss black paint, they wear Michelin Pilot Sport Cup DOT-approved (street legal) race tires, providing enhanced grip on the track.

Track performance is maximized in the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR via several weight-savings initiatives. The savings were achieved with the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Tires, Sidewinder lightweight wheels, and StopTech brake rotors. With the aerodynamic and suspension elements, the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR is 40 pounds lighter than the Viper SRT10 coupe. The optional Hard Core package further reduces the weight by another 40 pounds, for a total weight savings of 80 pounds.

Benchmark Braking
The Viper SRT10 benchmark brakes are taken to the next level in the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR. StopTech two-piece, slotted, lightweight rotors combine with the Viper SRT10's Brembo calipers to reduce rotating inertia and unsprung mass, improve brake cooling, and significantly reduce fade even under extreme conditions. The StopTech rotors feature a patented curved-fin design, a key element in improving brake cooling. The StopTech brake rotors combined with the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Tires and Sidewinder lightweight wheels combine to reduce 60 pounds of unsprung, rotating mass. The 2008 Dodge SRT10 Viper ACR stops from 60 mph in less than 100 feet.

Standout Powertrain
The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR utilizes the Viper SRT10's new 8.4-liter aluminum V-10 engine that produces a ground-shaking 600 horsepower and tire-smoking 560 lb.-ft. of torque. It features a deep-skirted V10 aluminum engine block, cylinder heads equipped with Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC)-shaped combustion chambers, large valves and Variable Valve Timing (VVT). VVT Electronically adjusts when the exhaust valves are open and closed according to engine speed and load, allowing the engine to "breathe" cleaner and more efficiently.

The two-piece intake manifold combines cast aluminum lower with smooth runners for better air flow, bolted to a die-cast aluminum upper plenum. A revised air-cleaner box with a low-restriction filter sends air through a dual electronic throttle control into the intake module.

The air-fuel mixture in the cylinders is ignited by platinum-tip spark plugs fired by individual plug coils mounted on the cylinder-head covers.

Within the cylinders, pistons are equipped with large-diameter floating pins with bronze bushings for high-load capability. Forged powder-metal connecting rods are secured with aircraft-quality fasteners for increased fatigue strength.

Engine lubrication is managed by the large oil pump and a swinging oil pickup adapted from Viper competition engines, to ensure proper oil pressure in high-rpm and hard cornering conditions.

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR sports the latest evolution of the Tremec T56 six-speed manual transmission known as the TR6060. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a GKN ViscoLok speed-sensing limited-slip differential.

Manufacturing
The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR will be hand built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit.

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR will arrive in showrooms in the second quarter of 2008 at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of less than $100,000. Complete pricing information will be released at a later date.

Street and Racing Technology
SRT creates some of Chrysler LLC's boldest, most distinctive products by single-mindedly following its core vision: Deliver benchmark performance at the lowest price, and deliver it with absolute integrity and credibility.

Every SRT vehicle showcases five key aspects: Exterior styling that resonates with the brand image; race-inspired interiors; world-class ride and handling characteristics across a dynamic range; benchmark braking and standout powertrain.

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Comments

AZNMAN
November 9, 2007 12:11 PM
The viper is known for its very spartan and consistently overheating interior, and its brutal ride accompanied by its crude handling that is merely based on whim due to an unecessary large amount of horsepower that cannot be balanced with the car's curb weight. Very contrary what this whole article and especially the last paragraph right up there has been blabbering about.

FOXHOUND
November 9, 2007 5:25 PM
i am sorry AZNMAN i have to disagree with you, you have not had the pleasure of driving a dodge viper, i have driven an 06' srt10 across my home state, and the ride was comfortable and smooth and the interior never overheated and it was just a blast to drive. your opinion is appreciated, but just don't knock it till you try it. its an awesome car to drive and if your try it i bet you'll enjoy it.

AZNMAN
November 9, 2007 6:42 PM
I was just restating some things I recalled reading from a previous month's Road and Track or one of those car magazines. They did a comparison of the z06 and the Viper and I am nearly sure that they said the same things about the viper. My speculation may be incorrect as I admit i've never driven one and you have.

moyusuf
November 9, 2007 8:09 PM
Both of you guys hold down a good point, but you gotta agree that it is absolutly beautiful to look at.

saint_dracula
November 9, 2007 8:56 PM
I can't help but think that Dodge has blown away their last chance to put into production the fairly awesome GTS-R concept or the Competition Viper. The rear end of either cars I think would be far suited to this type of car. Plus the sloping roof line.

BlueMagic
November 10, 2007 2:51 AM
its so ugly and doesnt sell well considering its low price! German cars that cost more are selling more than this!

car-lover
November 10, 2007 2:45 PM
An aluminum engine with 8.4L , but only gives 600hp!! Oh, My god, When they going to learn? with that size German can reach 2000hp !!!

Ferrariguy
November 10, 2007 6:20 PM
It sounds like "silversedanman," is now resurrected as "bluemagic." lol

AZNMAN
November 10, 2007 11:03 PM
haha really what happened to silversedanman, rolli and abu-fahd. this site is much more pleasant without them nevertheless I must say.

AZNMAN
November 10, 2007 11:45 PM
well at least he's resurrected with better english.

FOXHOUND
November 12, 2007 5:05 PM
lol thats right AZNMAN they were probably banned and had to make new names!!! i was wondering why "silversedanman" wasn't ripping this new viper to shreds.

FOXHOUND
November 12, 2007 5:45 PM
i hope that the next evolutiion in the viper incorporates some design elements of the 02' concept (although i doubt it). it would be awesome if they decide to go mid-engine like the next corvette. oh and CAR-LOVER the reason the engines being so big (viper 8.0L, zo6 7.0L) is because the engineers wanted the most amount of torque to be available at the lowest rpm (low-end torque). both of these cars have almost 100% of their torque available from about 3500 RPM, and those other engines your talking about however efficient they may be have to go at LEAST 5500 RPM or much higher to achieve their optimal torque output. low-end torque = stoplight drag races = FUN.

radmeister
November 13, 2007 12:29 AM
foxhound, the 600 series mercedes engine makes 612lb-ft from 1800-3500rpm. and 510hp at 5000rpm. and that is a luxury car engine not a "race car" this car still is the same as when it first started, it was made for a redneck by another redneck in a barn. There is no new technology on this thing. Big engine, wide wheels and thats it...

radmeister
November 13, 2007 12:33 AM
Oh and i forgot to mention on what track on this planet would this car not get destroyed by a 100,000$ lotus elise? This is a drag car and will always be, and in drag racing wings and diffusers slow u down pointlessly. this car is a joke, it doesnt belong anywhere.

blueraider19
November 13, 2007 2:34 AM
Yes. Those numbers are correct for a 600 Series Mercedes. However, you're comparing the Viper's normally aspirated engine with a Mercedes bi-turbo. Twin turbo Vipers are making well over 1000 hp. Also, I doubt you're aware Lamborghini developed the early Viper engines. Chrysler owned Lambo at the time. I guess there are rednecks at Lambo?!? That's pretty racist to me.

AZNMAN
November 13, 2007 2:34 AM
And would it help you to know that this viper would probably have much better track times than a 4 cylinder elise as well as a v12 600 benz? No matter how american or pointlessly powerful it is you gotta accept that fact that this car is indeed fast. btw, the elise is 50,000 here in the US, and the exige isn't that much more expensive.

blueraider19
November 13, 2007 3:02 AM
And another thing! The standard '08 Viper set Car & Driver magazine's fastest lap at Virginia International Raceway. VIR is a world class facility, not some make-shift track assembled on an airstrip (i.e. Top Gear). The new Viper turned laps faster than Porsche's GT3 which I consider a great track car. The Viper ACR is much more focused and has been bred for road racing. I just can't understand why you kids believe American cars cannot handle. American race cars (i.e. Viper GTSR, C6R Saleen S7R, Mosler MT900 etc.) has won races world-wide.

radmeister
November 13, 2007 6:40 AM
The Virginia International Raceway is mostly straight ofcourse the viper would beat a 415hp porsche, put the two cars on a track with more turns and the gt3 would come ontop. And the race cars you listed aren't normal cars you cant even compare them to this or any car they cost 5million each other than the block and the exterior they have nothing in common with the street car. As for me stating the figures of the 600 merc. it was just a response to "other cars have to rev over 3500rpm to make power" the only other car that merc has with the same block is the SLR and there is no point in even comparing it to a viper. As for the elise i was talking about a track version as this is a track built viper. They have 400hp elises that on a track would run circles around this car.

radmeister
November 13, 2007 6:44 AM
As for lambo desigining the block it really tells you how confident they were in their design because their current engines have nothing in common with this engine. It's a simple fact North America only has the technology to make 1 sports car and thats the Corvette. Vipers sold so well dodge had to make a useless SRT-10 truck to get rid of their extra engines.

FOXHOUND
November 14, 2007 10:41 PM
wow i think radmeister, silversedanman, and bluemagic are the same person. guys what do you think? their grasp of language skills and the use of the word "ofcourse" in most of their posts are suspiciously similar. plus their hate for all things NOT german is a dead giveaway. obviously radmeister when i talk about engines that big i mean naturally aspirated, but if you want to talk bi-turbo angines this big check this link

http://www.supercars.net/cars/3241.html

"ofcourse" you'lle probably give me a thousand reasons why this car sucks but nobody cares because just about everybody in this site is tired of your superiority complex pshyco babble about how germany is the best. and as for this car being "designed for a redneck by a redneck" at least we know how to enjoy ourselves and have fun with our cars and are not tied down by some elitest atitude toward the world.

AZNMAN
November 15, 2007 1:12 AM
Haha I'm afraid to say that I am now unfortunately convinced that Silversedanman has indeed resurrected as bluemagic. It can obviously be seen from their narrow minded stupidity. Radmeister actually has some reasoning behind his logic, though bluemagic i must say is a complete retard.

FOXHOUND
November 14, 2007 10:42 PM
http://www.supercars.net/cars/3241.html

radmeister
November 15, 2007 7:17 AM
Link doesnt work lemme guess hennessy 1000 venom?? there was nothing special bout that car when it came out and still isnt anything special, if you are willing to pay 275,000$ for a 1000hp viper be my guest. I'll take a 2 year old murcielago or a new GT2. If you want impressive technology and bi-turbo power look at old bmw F1 cars or the Porsche 962 not at vipers and then try to convince me how godly they are with their 120hp/L.

radmeister
November 15, 2007 7:21 AM
Better yet look at the Auto Union Type D. made in 1938 with a 3L Supercharged V12 making 485hp. That was 1938 this viper doesnt even compare to that car when it comes to leading edge engineering and ingenuity. I will restate my original statement this car is nothing more than a big engine with wide rear tires. nothing more, never was and never will be

phil
December 6, 2007 2:21 AM
In reference to the 1938 v-12. In 1938, acceleration and torque were not of utmost importance, terminal speed was. Fuel injection was non existent and engineers didn't have to worry about emissions which would would have hindered output, especially for that area when computers were not around. If you are going to make comments, please be eduacated in history or in this case have some common sense.

Bremen_Koenigsegg
February 1, 2008 6:54 PM
Even assuming they've worked out the "confidence" issue with the inert steering feedback, to me, this will never be a proper track car. Even with its "Hardcore" package, it only sheds 80 lbs of weight? That's the same as removing your 4-year-old American child from the car. To be taken seriously at all, they ought to remove its air conditioning unit and install a pair of very complicated racing harness! And the cabin is much too luxurious, clad as it is in cheap plastics. It needs to be stripped out. I want it to have exposed wiring -- I want to see the engineers save as much weight as possible! It's a track car, for goodness sake.

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