Hi Guys,
Here's how I look at a used Viper:
1) Using a flashlight look into the front wheel well in front of the tire. You'll be looking for the angled bracket that connects the facia to the rest of the car. It has four bolts. If they're not in their original position (ie washer marks), beware the facia has been adjusted implying a wreck in the front.
2) Lay down on the ground and look at the connecting hardware for the side sills. If they're not in their original position, beware as they imply a wreck from the side.
3) Look closely at the rivets that connect the rear fenders to both the wheel well and the inner door sill. If they're painted or anything other than black with the rivet shaft showing throught the middle, beware as the rear of the car has been hit or worked.
Obviously, you need to be able to detect things like orange peel or paint overspray. However, a Viper is typically painted by a shop that is meticulous enough to cover the tracks. The usual give-away for damage is washer marks where bolts where moved. That's why I tell you to look at the six critical areas mentioned above.
I also look at all suspension adjustment points since you can usually tell if things have been moved for alignment or racing adjustment.
Other than that, the general condition of the car is the story. Look between the seat and the transmission **** or the outer sill for debris or dust. If it's there, consider the mileage and wonder why those things are there.
The car is so beautiful that it's easy to miss the forest for the trees.
If the trees are damaged; I say "Run Forest, Run"!
Good Luck,
