The all-new 2013 SRT Viper was unveiled at the 2012 New York International Auto Show, marking its highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market.
The fifth generation of the iconic two-seat, American-built supercar has been deliberately evolved to incorporate superior craftsmanship, a host of new technologies and ergonomic improvements while respecting its visceral legacy of outright performance.
Two new models for any performance buyer
For the 2013 model year, two new models of the iconic supercar will be hand built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit - the home for Viper since 1995. Both SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS models offer new interior and exterior designs incorporating premium materials and new exterior surfaces with aerodynamically functional details that are beautifully integrated into the high-tech carbon fiber and aluminum skin. On the inside, designers and engineers strived to rethink all touch points; and upgrade all material appointments and technologies.
The SRT Viper GTS builds on the DNA of the SRT Viper model with more technologically advanced solutions, like two-mode active suspension, to allow this world-class GTS to find new limits on the track while also opening up its envelope as a more premium and mature evolution of the classic, extreme performance formula. Designed and built with premium features and materials inside and out, the Viper GTS will compete with the best performance vehicles in the world with a wide range of creature comforts, advanced drivetrain and interior technologies.
Awe-inspiring V-10 powertrain
At the heart and soul of the 2013 SRT Viper is the venerable, hand-assembled 8.4-liter all-aluminum, V-10 overhead-valve engine.
Improvements for 2013 include a new, ultra-high flow and lightweight composite intake manifold, high-strength forged pistons, sodium-filled exhaust valves, new catalysts to reduce back pressure and an aluminum flywheel that reduces reciprocating losses. More than 25 pounds has been shaved from the fully dressed engine.
Preliminary performance ratings for the SRT-engineered V-10 Viper are 640 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque - the most torque of any naturally aspirated engine in the world.
The Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission has been improved with a shorter throw shifter, closer gear ratios and a final drive ratio that has been shortened to 3.55 from 3.07. The 2013 Viper models will be more engaging to drive and top speed is now achieved through 6th gear with maximum engine speed (redline) at 6,200 rpm.
Outstanding ride, handling and capability
Starting with a stiffer structure that provides 50 percent more torsional rigidity, the chassis of the 2013 SRT Viper benefits from numerous enhancements - many learned through racing efforts with Viper GTS-R and Competition Coupe models.
Major updates include the addition of a new aluminum "X" brace under the hood that ties the suspension pickup points to the magnesium cowl super casting and contributes to improved torsional rigidity and stiffness. A new aluminum impact beam at the front of the car contributes to overall mass savings and improved weight distribution while providing excellent crashworthiness.
Structurally, many areas of the chassis were reworked to take advantage of new materials, reduce thickness in some areas and reshape components for more structural rigidity in others. The result is an overall weight savings of approximately 100 pounds.
At the rear, the suspension has been re-engineered with the toe link moved forward of the axle for better tow control and dynamic stability.
A new, driver selectable two-mode suspension system, featuring Bilstein DampTronic Select shock absorbers with both street and track settings, is standard on GTS models.
For 2013, SRT Viper models ride on standard Pirelli P Zero, Z-rated tires with substantially improved overall performance, cold weather performance, enhanced overall grip and steering response on a variety of road surfaces while also broadening the performance envelope. An optional SRT Track Package features Pirelli P Zero Corsa, "soft"-tuned, "racing-type" compound tires that improve handling and precision further on the road or the race track.
For the first time, standard safety technologies such as electronic stability control and traction control help to maximize traction performance at virtually any speed and driving environment.
All 2013 Viper models will come with a steering-wheel-mounted launch control switch, allowing for optimal acceleration from standing starts.
Benchmark braking
Stopping performance for the 2013 SRT Viper is engineered to provide shorter stopping distances, better modulation, improved durability and balanced brake performance without fading under extreme conditions.
Four-piston Brembo brakes with fixed-aluminum calipers, and vented rotors with a diameter of 355 mm by 32 mm, are used at all four corners. Brake calipers are forged and weight optimized by fully machining all surfaces. The calipers are among the stiffest available with distortion from heat nearly eliminated even under the most demanding braking conditions.
The available SRT Track Package features lightweight and slotted two-piece rotors from StopTech.
New premium materials, craftsmanship and technologies
The all-new, driver-oriented interior cabins of the SRT Viper models have been totally revamped for 2013 with superior craftsmanship, premium material appointments and performance-oriented technologies.
For the first time, all major interior surfaces are sewn and wrapped with additional padding applied in comfort areas. On the Viper GTS model, all surfaces are fully leather skinned, and standard accent colors are applied to the seats, doors, center console and stitching.
Quality fit and finish across the lineup is showcased by triple-paint-finished Gun Metal appliqués on the cluster bezel, HVAC outlets, window switch bezels, shifter base, park brake bezel and the integrated passenger grab handle on the center console.
Standard high-performance racing seats from Sabelt feature a lightweight Kevlar/fiberglass shell created by a state-of-the-art resin transfer molding technology for mass reduction and long-term durability. Both driver and passenger enjoy improved comfort from thigh support and deep side bolsters designed to match the extreme lateral acceleration capabilities of the SRT Viper.
Seating position in the 2013 SRT Viper models is 20 mm lower for more room and enhanced performance-driving ergonomics. Seat travel is extended by 90 mm overall, which enables expanded seating options from a more rearward positioned bulkhead. For the first time, seat height can be adjusted by up to 40 mm - manually on the SRT model and power controlled on the GTS.
The new 2013 Viper is the most spacious model in the history of the nameplate. The floor pan and bulkhead have been extended approximately 90 mm to provide improved legroom and more rearward seat track movement.
Designed specifically for the 2013 SRT Viper, the new 7-inch, full-color, customizable instrument cluster display uses a full-time analog tachometer readout in the center to confirm the performance driving feedback philosophy of the Viper. Drivers have a wide range of custom and personal options such as an additional digital speedometer readout just below the tachometer. The vehicle information is clearly communicated with easy-to-understand icons. Intuitively controlled through a simple four-way steering-wheel control, the driver can configure the screens to display the information they desire, easily mixing and matching information.
Uconnect Access provides new level of connectivity
The 2013 SRT Viper lineup includes the new, next generation Uconnect Access in-vehicle connectivity system that provides drivers with access to more information, emergency services, more entertainment and improved graphics.
Viper customers can choose between two Uconnect Media Centers, RA3 and RA4, which provide a range of new features and multiple ways to control media in the vehicle. The system includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen along with a set of hard keys for commonly used functions, including traditional knobs for tuning the radio bands and radio volume. Touchscreen buttons along the bottom of the screen allow drivers to easily access the radio, climate controls, navigation, phone, and new, select, certified applications. The new, highly sculpted steering wheel has a host of finger-tip mounted controls for audio, Uconnect, cruise control (first application) and launch control.
SiriusXM Travel Link also is available with Uconnect, providing premium data services and information to make every trip more efficient. SiriusXM Traffic works with the vehicle's navigation system to display traffic speed and traffic flow information along with accident information to assist drivers in routing around congested areas. An expanded SiriusXM channel lineup includes exclusive programming, including the new SiriusXM Latino channels, an auto industry first.
A range of Harman Kardon surround-sound systems are available across the SRT Viper lineup that feature the latest in audio system technology. All Harman Kardon audio systems include a high-voltage class D amplifier with tracking power supply and up to 11 channels of amplification. The Harman Kardon system with exclusive Logic 7 surround-sound processing is available in the Viper GTS model with a total of 18-speakers, including four subwoofers located behind the seats. All Harman Kardon systems in the 2013 SRT Viper lineup include high-performance, high-efficiency GreenEdge technology loudspeakers that are extremely light and include rare earth magnets. The magnets inside each speaker ensure efficient speaker operation and enhanced performance. The audio systems operate on 32 volts - so the new and improved sound system achieves more than double the acoustic power of the current system.
Refined evolution of SRT's hallmark - aggressive and functional exterior designs
The all-new, timeless exterior design blends contemporary execution with evolutionary refinement.
All-new carbon-fiber hood, roof, decklid and aluminum door panels are firsts for SRT Viper models resulting in significant weight reduction, improved high-speed stability and a slippery .364 drag coefficient.
The forward-hinged hood carries the redesigned Viper badge - aptly named "Stryker" by the Viper Club of America - positioned in the center; and offers unobtrusive access to several service points and the SRT-engineered V-10 powerplant.
The classical low-stance and the extreme cab rearward proportions that have become the unmistakable silhouette of the iconic supercar, return on the 2013 SRT Viper models along with the dramatic fender "gills" - another traditional Viper design cue that helps to extract heat from the engine compartment.
The 2013 Viper models feature a contemporary take on the traditional "double-bubble" roof configuration that maximizes headroom for the driver and passenger while maintaining a low frontal area - allowing additional room for helmets during recreational competitive driving.
Dual-function, bi-xenon projector headlamps are tightly packaged with white light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lamps and LED turn signals in a sinister "snake eye" configuration.
Functional "blisters" incorporated into the 70 mm projector headlamp lenses create a three-dimensional view that gives Viper a distinctive glare.
The lower-front grille is purposefully designed as an evolution of the traditional Viper low-profile cooling opening configuration and discretely carries a refined V-shape structure.
The exhaust system continues to exit forward of the rear wheels and now carries further refinement with cast aluminum, sill-mounted exhaust bezels.
For the first time, the 2013 SRT Viper models carry LED taillamps that integrate stop-and-turn illumination in one element. Snakeskin texture in the lens carries the surface work seen in the gills and hood textures. With dark-masked lenses, the horizontal lamps appear dark until the LED elements fire. Each lamp carries 50 LEDs that provide a unified "crystallized" illumination effect.
The five-spoke, forged-aluminum "Rattler" wheel design on the 2013 Viper model is available with fully polished (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted low-gloss black finishes.
The Viper GTS has a split six-spoke forged-aluminum "Venom" wheel design with three available finishes, including polished face with graphite-painted pockets (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted low-gloss black.
Available SRT Track Package wheels are ultra-lightweight, track-ready wheels in Hyper Black or matte black finishes.
Race Inspired and High-performance Interior
The all-new, driver-oriented interior cabins of the SRT Viper models have been totally revamped for 2013.
Superior craftsmanship blends new premium surfaces with thoughtfully applied color and material appointments, performance-oriented technologies, refined ergonomics and enhanced spaciousness and storage.
For the first time, all major interior surfaces are sewn and wrapped with additional padding applied in comfort areas. On the Viper GTS model, all surfaces are fully leather skinned and standard accent colors are applied to the seats, doors, center console and stitching.
Quality fit and finish across the lineup is showcased by triple-paint-finished Gun Metal appliqués on the cluster bezel, HVAC outlets, window switch bezels, shifter base, park brake bezel and the integrated passenger grab handle on the center console.
"Our passionate team of designers and SRT engineers set out to revamp the Viper interiors with truly premium materials, extreme attention to details and the newest information display technologies," said Klaus Busse, Head of Interior Design — Chrysler Group LLC. "The new cockpit carries a driver-oriented theme that rewards the senses with true supercar feel and looks."
New, standard racing seats were developed with Sabelt, the renowned supplier of race-oriented interior components. The high-performance seats feature a Kevlar cushion and lightweight fiberglass shell created by a state-of-the-art resin transfer molding technology for mass reduction and long-term durability. Both driver and passenger enjoy improved thigh support and deep side bolsters designed to match the extreme lateral acceleration capabilities of the SRT Viper while providing comfort. Both seats can also accommodate a 3- or 6-point harness for racing belts.
Seating position in the 2013 SRT Viper models is 20 millimeters (mm) lower for more room and enhanced performance-driving ergonomics. Seat travel is extended by 90 mm overall which enables expanded seating options from a more rearward positioned bulkhead. For the first time, seat height can be adjusted by up to 40 mm.
Premium woven-fabric seat skins on Viper (leather skinned on GTS) keep both driver and passenger comfortable, and both feature "Viper" embossed in the seat backs.
A new, fully leather-wrapped, three-spoke steering wheel is designed specifically for the 2013 SRT Viper models and features a thick performance-rim grip, flat-bottom contour for enhanced clearance, along with the new "Stryker" emblem in three-dimensional finish.
Performance-optimized weight ballasts located inside the new steering wheel provide the driver with precision feedback and a competition feel.
Audio system controls are located intuitively on the backside of the center spokes of the steering wheel. On the left front side of the steering wheel are controls to cycle through the instrument cluster menus, activate the voice-recognition system and place or receive handsfree phone calls. Electronic stability control four-mode selection, cruise and launch controls are located on the right side.
For the first time, cruise control comes standard on both 2013 Viper models - following a request from Viper Nation.
A new, lower-positioned center console provides optimized shift reach and comfort for the driver. Additionally, a shorter throw, leather-wrapped shift knob has a lower profile (approximately 40 mm).
A media console that houses USB, SD and auxiliary (in addition to wireless Bluetooth connectivity) ports is located in the center console storage bin.
The standard Keyless Go system enables passive entry and keyless ignition (with a push button start) via a custom keyless fob.
The new 2013 Viper is the most spacious model in the history of the nameplate.
The floor pan has been extended approximately 90 mm by moving the rear bulkhead rearward to provide enhanced legroom and more rearward seat track movement.
Storage space inside the new cockpit of the 2013 SRT Viper also has been improved with an oversized, lighted glove box that opens via a dampened door with an electric push button located in the center stack. A new storage compartment between the driver and passenger seat (open bin with netting on Viper model while enclosed, leather wrapped and sewn on GTS model) is integrated into the rear bulkhead.
Below the bulkhead storage area is a large, rubber-lined bin that features two full-size, removable cup holders (available on Viper, standard on GTS). Integrated map pockets are built into both doors on both models.
All interior storage spaces are flocked with soft-touch material, showing attention to the smallest design detail and to enhance overall quality.
Adjustable accelerator, clutch and brake pedals are constructed from high-quality magnesium and aluminum alloy.
Intricate interior detail appointments on the doors and center-storage tray include exclusive, subtle-raised schematics of famous race tracks including the 12.9-mile Nürburgring Nordscheilfe in Nürburg Germany and Laguna Seca Raceway in Salinas, Calif., where current single-lap records are held by previous generation Viper ACR models.
SRT Viper interior focuses on core performance needs
The six-way, manually adjusted driver seat in the 2013 Viper features premium fabric backs and are positioned 20 millimeters lower than the previous model with height adjustments for enhanced driver positioning.
The performance trim layout of the 2013 SRT Viper model features a sewn-and-wrapped instrument panel, center console, doors and A pillars. Color-keyed stitching is applied throughout the interior cabin.
The standard black interior combination includes black accent stitching on the instrument panel (through the cowl), center stack, console, pull brake, shifter boot, shifter head, steering wheel, upper doors and seats.
The standard black cloth seating surfaces in the 2013 Viper model also can be upgraded with black, red or tan Nappa leather.
SRT Viper GTS features intricately crafted materials and color appointments
The interior cabin of the 2013 SRT Viper GTS model features hand-cut, sewn-and-wrapped Nappa leather soft-touch surfaces throughout, including the leather-wrapped instrument panel, center console, doors and A pillars.
A variety of selectable colors are provocatively applied to the leather-appointed areas where the body comes in contact, including the doors, seats, console and HVAC outlet accents. Standard quality stitching is used in matching interior colors on the GTS model.
Available interior color combinations on the Viper GTS model include black, black/Header Red and black/Caramel.
An optional GTS Premium Interior Package features SRT Laguna premium leather surfacing throughout the entire cabin in either black or Sepia. Unique embossments are designed into the door bolsters, seats and the storage bag while a new Alcantara headliner completes the package.
The six-way, power-adjustable, standard leather-skinned driver seat is positioned 20 mm lower than the previous model with height adjustments for enhanced driver positioning.
New customizable instrument cluster configures to driver preference
Designed specifically for the 2013 SRT Viper, the new 7-inch, full-color, customizable display uses a full-time analog tachometer readout in the center to confirm the performance driving feedback philosophy of the Viper. Drivers have a wide range of custom and personal options, such as a digital speedometer readout just below the tachometer. A wide range of vehicle information is clearly communicated with easy-to-understand icons. Intuitively controlled through a simple four-way steering-wheel control, the driver can configure the screens to display the information they desire, easily mixing and matching information.
The customizable instrument cluster appears dark until the driver starts the car. Once the SRT Viper's V-10 engine fires up, the LED-backlit gauges come to life. The dominant center tachometer display features an animated readout that glows red and shows off the new "Stryker" logo when engine rpm approaches redline to safely alert the driver to upshift via their peripheral vision.
When necessary, additional context-based messages including warning and diagnostic information are displayed with easy-to-understand readouts. Text warning messages also are displayed and automatically sent into stored messages that enable the driver to review when parked.
Drivers can configure the tachometer to display their last shift point and a peak rpm hold marker can be set up for optimum performance.
The new customizable instrument cluster provides an unmatched presentation of the exclusive SRT Performance Pages' statistics and feedback to the driver, including 0-to-60 mph; 0-to-100 mph; eighth- and quarter-mile elapsed times; braking distance; instant G-force measurement readouts and top-speed performance. All Performance Pages data can be stored for future use.
Drivers can customize the cluster readouts through nine available main menus. The four corners of the center display can be set to show information at a glance, including current fuel economy, outside temperature, compass direction and alternate gauges when needed. The nine main screens include a full tachometer for the traditional performance enthusiast, speed, fuel economy, trip A odometer, trip B odometer, audio, stored messages, vehicle information and SRT Performance Pages.
The screens can be configured depending on driver preference. Once a screen is chosen, it becomes the default setting, with no need to select a save or set buttons. The settings are linked to each key fob, so two drivers who share a vehicle will see their personal gauge settings as soon as their key fob is used to start the vehicle.
