Dodge Viper Returns in 2021 with Aluminum V8: Car & Driver
Once again, it appears that reports of the Viper’s demise are greatly exaggerated, but it will return with a lot of changes.
We’ve seen this act before. The Dodge Viper came into this world with a bang back in 1992 until it went on hiatus from 2010-2013. Then it was reborn as a more “civilized” machine, albeit while also retaining its V10 heart. But even that comeback proved short-lived, as Chrysler announced way back in 2015 that the Dodge Viper would once again leave this world after the 2017 model year. But according to Car & Driver, even this latest hiatus appears to be just that—a hiatus.
C&D doesn’t pull any punches, either. “Not many details have surfaced yet, but trust us: A new Viper is happening.” They cite the fact that Dodge needs some sort of halo car to compete with the Ford GT and mid-engine Corvette. Thus, the forthcoming Viper, which they call a 2021 model, will be quite different from the one we’ve known and loved all these years.
Most notably, C&D says the new Dodge Viper will ditch its V10 in favor of an aluminum block V8. Not an iron block Hemi. But it’ll stay naturally-aspirated, at least initially. Which is refreshing in this day and age of forced induction everything. Expect multiple levels of performance, ranging from 550 hp all the way up to a blown 700-plus horsepower option a couple of years down the road. And, of course, a hardcore racer like the ACR will follow suit as well.
In terms of underpinnings, C&D expects the all-new Dodge Viper to use a spaceframe with independent front and rear suspension. Prodigious amounts of aluminum and carbon fiber aim to keep weight down. But despite all of these newfangled changes, the Viper will retain its traditional long hood. And the engine stays mounted behind the front axle where it belongs.
C&D notes that the 2019 Detroit Auto Show marks the original Viper concept’s 30th anniversary, which would make a ceremonious time to debut the new one. But they don’t expect the actual production version to hit the road until late 2020 as a 2021 model. Interestingly, they also expect a convertible to be available from day one. And pricing reportedly could come in at under $90,000.
Dodge Viper fans are used to being teased at this point. But this is exciting news, regardless. It looks like FCA just can’t quit their venomous ride, and neither can we.
Join the Dodge Forums now!
