2008 Dodge Viper Review

Few cars on the road today have the presence or sheer sinister look of the 2008 Dodge Viper, and the Dodge Viper 2008 ACR package kicks the styling further over the top.

For 2008, Edmunds says that "the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT-10 is available as either a two-seat coupe or a soft-top roadster," On the regular Dodge Viper 2008 coupe and convertible, Cars.com notes that "some observers dismiss the Viper's styling as the stuff of grade-school boys' daydreams," but reviews read by TheCarConnection.com agree that the styling is perfectly suited to the Dodge Viper. Kelley Blue Book writes that the 2008 Dodge Viper's "more angular front end is highlighted by a large, functional air-intake scoop," and "also on the hood are a half-dozen vents that let air out of the engine compartment."

Motor Trend adds that the SRT team’s engineers "have taken the already super snake up another notch in the form of the 2008 Viper SRT10 ACR (American Club Racer)." The 2008 Dodge Viper ACR adds "a number of aero elements" that "have been designed for the ACR in an effort to maximize downforce," according to Motor Trend. They say that these aero elements include "front 'dive planes' on either side of the front fascia, a variable geometry 'fanged' front spoiler," and an "adjustable rear wing."

In past years, Vipers came in little more than basic-black inside, with a kit-car feel brought on by parts-bin components and nonmatching surfaces. The '07 Viper was a big step up in civility, but for 2008, the Dodge Viper advances further with more than a few interior choices. It’s available in five different interior colors and a choice of bezel finishes, along with other customization options.

Some reviewers find fault with the layout, though. ConsumerGuide notes that "the speedometer and fuel gauge can suffer sunlight reflections, rendering them hard to read," while Kelley Blue Book thinks that "SRT overdid its self-proclaimed race-inspired image with the 2008 SRT10's large, center-mounted tachometer." Kelley Blue Book adds "the oil-pressure, oil-temperature and water-temperature gauges are hidden behind the steering wheel." On the positive side, reviewers at The Detroit News feel that the Dodge Viper's interior is "much cleaner and better made than the previous model," and write that "it's more refined."