2008 Cruise Control ???????????

[Chuck 98 RT/10]

And yes I know it is adjustable (ooh, are race car pedals adjustable???).

Somewhat. Typically, they are custom fit to the driver. Adjustable pedals on a sports car is a reasonable solution.

Regarding the remainder of your list I could do without all of it except the AC, which after two years is still not functioning on my RT/10. I gotta get around to getting that fixed sometime.

 

[Chuck 98 RT/10]

1. It is prudent to stop and take a break if you get tired while driving any car but especially a Viper.

That is so true. I used to drive "tank to tank" but no more. I usually stop every couple hours and the type of vehicle has little or nothing to do with it. In fact, I think I tend to go longer periods without stopping in the Viper than I do in my pickup or any other vehicle I've driven. Kinda goes against the grain of the cruise control advocates but that's me. I guess I feel more comfortable driving a race car.

 

[Warfang]

Here is a quick list of items that do not follow the original persona of the Viper:
electric windows
electric trunk
electric pedals
electric side view mirrors
hydraulic clutch
tilt steering column
ABS
tire pressure monitor
windshield washer
rear window defrost
Air conditioning
console glove box
locking doors
carpeted trunk
navigator
engine knock detection
electronic throttle control (drive by wire)
cam in cam variable exhaust timing

I am sure there are more. Obviously the Viper is not as bare bones as some state. It is only in the obvious areas that it is not. Things like electric seats, heated seats, heads up display, cruise, traction control, Electronic stability control, auto-manual or full auto transmission, etc. Some of these may become federal requirements in the not too distant future. And if the hard line is maintained the Viper will be history. So for you TC and ESC haters, you will need to buy used to avoid them.

Rinse, lather, repeat: FOR ITS TIME.... FOR ITS TIME....

 

[Warfang]

That is so true. I used to drive "tank to tank" but no more. I usually stop every couple hours and the type of vehicle has little or nothing to do with it. In fact, I think I tend to go longer periods without stopping in the Viper than I do in my pickup or any other vehicle I've driven. Kinda goes against the grain of the cruise control advocates but that's me. I guess I feel more comfortable driving a race car.

Actually, I just had a 4 hour commute in the Viper yesterday. I find in 6th gear, it runs almost like cruise control. Wasn't tired one bit. Maybe one of the Viper tuners need to come up with a Geritol Package for these old whiney people that need cruise control, side sill cooler-pads (you know, they cant clear it with their weak legs), and leverage bars to get in and out (you know, like in handicapped bathrooms).

If you can't physically drive a Viper for long periods, how do even get in and out of one? For that matter... why do you even drive one? Frankly, I think cruise control is dangerous... especially in a viper. Thats all you need... a device that allows you to be less aware of driving a 3000lbs missile.

 

[viperbilliam]

Warfang, try 8 or 10 hrs. I do take breaks every couple of hours or so and I do take my vitamins. I'm also much fitter than the average 50 yr old and even a lot of 20 yr olds (my joints aren't as good though). Getting in and out is a piece of cake. I do believe a more comfortable driver is a less distracted driver. I don't agree with some of Herb's ideas. I do draw the line at cell phones, automatic parking, computer-aided handling or braking systems, heated seats, (cooled seats are OK, though), over-assisted power steering and clutches, seat-belt reminder chimes, and other things I can't think of now.

 

[Warfang]

Warfang, try 8 or 10 hrs. I do take breaks every couple of hours or so and I do take my vitamins. I'm also much fitter than the average 50 yr old and even a lot of 20 yr olds (my joints aren't as good though). Getting in and out is a piece of cake. I do believe a more comfortable driver is a less distracted driver. I don't agree with some of Herb's ideas. I do draw the line at cell phones, automatic parking, computer-aided handling or braking systems, heated seats, (cooled seats are OK, though), over-assisted power steering and clutches, seat-belt reminder chimes, and other things I can't think of now.

I hear you, and I understand your plight. But, it is what it is. Crying about it is pointless. I know people who would LOVE to have a Viper, but it's too expensive. Should we have a V6 option? I know people who can't drive a manual... should we insist on an automatic? Where does it end? Just enough to satisfy your one particular need?

Have you even tried the aftermarket solution? I've heard nothing but good things about it.

As for the 08's inability to use the aftermarket CC's.... we'll just have to wait and see.

 

[mike & juli]

I'm with Warfang here...6th gear IS more or less like cruise control...or even 5th. We need to be 'in control' of these cars, and to make them more 'comfy', is NOT what the BEAST is all about!!! We gotta have these RAW Vipers out there..the way they are and intended to be...a DRIVERS' car. One MUST pay attention while driving these...we have our other 'daily drivers' for comfort and relaxing (actually relaxing is not a good term to relate to driving!)...comfort is NOT why we take out the BEAST!!! Just my .02. ~juli

 

[Warfang]

The day when I get too old or physically unable to drive the Viper for long duration will be a sad one, but that's life. I will have other cars for long distance driving and drive the snake for short stretches only... beats little blue pills anytime!

 

[viperbilliam]

I was set on getting that cruise control from Snake Oyl until I read somewhere on this forum about a drawback or two from its functionality; I would have to use the search function to find the specifics but the claim of "I've heard nothing but good things about it" - well, there are some happy people but there were one or two with complaints that scared me away. I'm pretty fussy about installing aftermarket items because I have seen (used) too many that didn't quite live up to the claims or my criteria. I'd rather do without it. Snake Oyl had a dandy compass mirror I liked until a further inquiry revealed that the security light will not function anymore. Yeah, I'm fussy. So why am I drving a Viper? The power, turning, stopping, shifting, cornering, seats, gauges, engine, hood, stripes,etc are so first rate it overwhelmed my fussiness.

 

[05Viper]

I have had the Snake Oyl cruise in mine for over 2 years now and no problems. I have driven my 05 to Massachusettes and back to Florida 3 times. The 2 with the cruise were much easier on the legs and I'm only 43. Throw in a couple of trips to Texas and I have had some long trips. I love driving my Viper, long trips or around town, no matter. Having cruise did not and would not influence my decision to buy one. I added it because it was available. Don't care if they add it or not, still would not influence my decision to buy another or not. The car will evolve, like it or not! Just like any other car, if you like it, want it, add it or do with out whatever it is. Just enjoy it. I do!

 

[Flexx91]

Here is a quick list of items that do not follow the original persona of the Viper:
electric windows
electric trunk
electric pedals
electric side view mirrors
hydraulic clutch
tilt steering column
ABS
tire pressure monitor
windshield washer
rear window defrost
Air conditioning
console glove box
locking doors
carpeted trunk
navigator
engine knock detection
electronic throttle control (drive by wire)
cam in cam variable exhaust timing

Where did you get navigation from? And please don't mention RB1. It is a universal and interchangeable Mopar component and is not factory installed.

 

[mjf6175]

If I remember correctly, Navigation Radio is an available option from the factory for 08..........