In any conversation about whether Detroit is capable of making great exotic sports cars, the Dodge Viper figures to be mentioned prominently. The just-announced specs of the latest model, the 2016 Dodge Viper ACR, point to a car that could very well hold its own in the mix with Europe’s hottest sports cars.
The Viper ACR – the acronym stands for American Club Racer, what else did you think? – derives its power from a hand-built 8.4-liter V-10 engine that packs 645 horsepower that generate a whopping 600 lb.-ft. of torque (Dodge even claims that mark is “the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports-car engine in the world.”)
Did we mention that the 2016 Viper ACR is street-legal despite the race-tuned suspension with a 10-setting Bilstein racing shocks and customized Kumho Ecsta 720 tires? Well, it is. Plus, the Viper features a new ACR Extreme Aero Package, highlighted by a 1 ton of peak downforce at top speed thanks to an adjustable dual-element carbon fiber rear wing, rear carbon fiber diffuser and unique SRT hood with removable louvers, detachable extension for the front splitter and additional dive planes.
The Viper is lean and maintains 50/50 weight distribution with a lightweight carpet, a three speaker audio system and manual seats. And for such a speedy car, just in case you’re wondering – the Viper ACR can brake as well as it can accelerate. The ACR-exclusive Carbon Ceramic Matrix 15-inch two-piece rotors and six-piston front calipers from Brembo ensure that happens.
The interior is lined with Alcantara and the seats feature accent stitching to compliment the ‘ACR’ dash badge. Recognizing that buyers may want even more customization, Dodge is offering ‘1 of 1’ customization option as well.
The 2016 Dodge Viper ACR will be built starting in the third quarter in Detroit. Pricing and availability at dealerships has not been announced.
Photo Credit: Dodge
