How to Drive a Viper

[Mike 123]

Now that I am a first time new owner of a new Viper and after reading all of the warnings everyone has posted I would like to learn how to drive this car safely. I live in Wisconsin and I would like to take a class that I can drive to if possible. Does anyone have any suggestions on driving classes for Viper owners? I would prefer to dive a Viper in class.
_____________________
2008 Venom Red Viper
2007 Black Z06

 

[Newport Viper]

You need more common sense with these then classes. Don't let the class give you false confidence when you get back on the road.....

 

[TrapperJ]

Hi Mike 123. I'm a very new 2009 Viper driver myself. I drive my Viper like my wife's 911. Mildly aggressive but smooth shifting and easy clutch let off. I never dump the clutch, especially at high revs with the wheel turned.This car does not have electronic stability control to reign in your mistakes or over aggresiveness. If you want to practice aggressive turns, do it on a big parking lot after it rains. Your spins will be safe and out of traffic. Otherwise have fun. I come home with a smile on my face everytime I drive it. John

 

[steve911]

Mike,

where are you located? There are lots of viper owners in WI. There are several who have tons of track experience and then there are those of us who are long term viper owners that can also give advice.

Steve A.

 

[Leslie]

NARRA/Viper days will be at Gingerman in New Haven, MI June 5-6. They have awsome VIPER instructors and you will also have track support if needed, one of the many perks of running with a Viper group.

NARRA Online [Complete Schedule]

You could also hook up with the Porsche clubs at Road America in Elkhart Lake, WI and get some seat time and instruction, pm me if you would like a 2010 schedule. I instruct with them at Putnam Park and Mid OH if you ever want to run those courses.

 

[steve911]

NARRA/Viper days will be at Gingerman in New Haven, MI June 5-6. They have awsome VIPER instructors and you will also have track support if needed, one of the many perks of running with a Viper group.

NARRA Online [Complete Schedule]

You could also hook up with the Porsche clubs at Road America in Elkhart Lake, WI and get some seat time and instruction, pm me if you would like a 2010 schedule. I instruct with them at Putnam Park and Mid OH if you ever want to run those courses.

Mike,

I completely had a huge brain fart! Leslie lives practically in our back yard and is a wonderful source for instruction. Sorry Leslie.

Steve A.

 

[VipeRauf]

I had just turned 21 in February of 2008 when I first bought my Viper, and coming from a near stock 350z I can tell ya, you learn by going out and driving it.

Don't waste your money on a class, I mean I'm sure it'll be fun and somewhat helpful but the key with a raw car as the Viper is to Respect it. Because there is no traction control, and in my case no abs brakes nor airbags, my rule of thumb was to STAY OFF THE PEDAL on turns and Especially exit ramps.

I had a few instances when the rear almost went out, but that is expected with a car with this much torque and no traction control system whatsoever.

Eventually, you come to a point when you control these moments, whipping your rear end when YOU CHOOSE TO do so on purpose. (not that I'd recommend it, but it sure as hell was fun)

 

[Warfang]

I had just turned 21 in February of 2008 when I first bought my Viper, and coming from a near stock 350z I can tell ya, you learn by going out and driving it.

Don't waste your money on a class, I mean I'm sure it'll be fun and somewhat helpful but the key with a raw car as the Viper is to Respect it. Because there is no traction control, and in my case no abs brakes nor airbags, my rule of thumb was to STAY OFF THE PEDAL on turns and Especially exit ramps.

I had a few instances when the rear almost went out, but that is expected with a car with this much torque and no traction control system whatsoever.

Eventually, you come to a point when you control these moments, whipping your rear end when YOU CHOOSE TO do so on purpose. (not that I'd recommend it, but it sure as hell was fun)

The people downplaying the importance of taking a class that teaches vehicle dynamics are being irresponsible and ignorant of its benefits. Common sense can only be achieved if you know what the parameters are. There is NO SAFER place to learn these parameters than in a structured environment where professional instructors help you understand them. I have NEVER met anyone who went to a class that was "overconfident" coming out... claiming how they can "whip their rear ends when THEY CHOSE TO"... THAT sounds like overconfidence.

The classes ARE fun, however, and the lessons learned are well worth the price. Don't think about it... sign up today!

 

[Next Phase]

The people downplaying the importance of taking a class that teaches vehicle dynamics are being irresponsible and ignorant of its benefits. Common sense can only be achieved if you know what the parameters are. There is NO SAFER place to learn these parameters than in a structured environment where professional instructors help you understand them. I have NEVER met anyone who went to a class that was "overconfident" coming out... claiming how they can "whip their rear ends when THEY CHOSE TO"... THAT sounds like overconfidence.

The classes ARE fun, however, and the lessons learned are well worth the price. Don't think about it... sign up today!

Well put!

 

[SquadX]

Go out and drive the car and back that up with lessons. A lesson or two can teach you car dynamics and point of the cars limits.
U don't wanna learn how hard u can take a turn by crashing on the street or slamming on the brakes and having the ass come around on you. Not fun....from what I've heard.

 

[plumcrazy]

common sense cant be taught.

 

[j-rho]

Take it to an autocross.

 

[anaconda666]

Just park it in the garage and don't ever go near it - don't even look at it - then you may be safe

 

[Bobpantax]

In addition to the above, visually check your tires before getting in the car. You have a 2008 Viper. If the tires are more than two years old, even if they still have tread, they will be harder. This is especially true if they have been heat cycled over and over again by burn outs or similar activity. Old, cold tires on a Viper can be brutal. Always, with no exceptions, allow the tires to warm up. This takes about two miles of normal street driving.

I do not know whether you drink. If you do, don't drink (not even one drink) and drive a Viper. Reaction time with our monsters is even more important because there is no nanny tech to bail us out of an impulsive maneuver.

Lastly, do not engage in impulsive maneuvers. The temptation is constantly there to show off. Do not do it. I have seen some of the most stupid, irresponsible videos posted on YouTube. It was only through the grace of G-d and dumb luck that the drivers did not have an accident in traffic and hurt and/or kill themselves and others.

 

[Warfang]

In addition to the above, visually check your tires before getting in the car. You have a 2008 Viper. If the tires are more than two years old, even if they still have tread, they will be harder. This is especially true if they have been heat cycled over and over again by burn outs or similar activity. Old, cold tires on a Viper can be brutal. Always, with no exceptions, allow the tires to warm up. This takes about two miles of normal street driving.

I do not know whether you drink. If you do, don't drink (not even one drink) and drive a Viper. Reaction time with our monsters is even more important because there is no nanny tech to bail us out of an impulsive maneuver.

Lastly, do not engage in impulsive maneuvers. The temptation is constantly there to show off. Do not do it. I have seen some of the most stupid, irresponsible videos posted on YouTube. It was only through the grace of G-d and dumb luck that the drivers did not have an accident in traffic and hurt and/or kill themselves and others.

I'd listen to Bob... he's the smartest man here.

I'd also add that if you're starting out... shift early. Stay at a higher gear(at a lower speed)... especially in the rain. The car will pull slower like a tractor rather than a humming bird darting every which way. Once you get the hang of it, ease into the power. Remember, smoother is faster.

 

[Martin]

To add to what Bob said above, learn to ignore other drivers taunting you into seeing what the car will do... There are a lot of Mustang and ricer owners out there that want to show that their highly modified cars can beat a $100k Viper.

I liken it to being a Blackbelt - you don't need to kick people's asses in bars to know you can do it, and you know that if you do kick someone's ass, there could be some big consequences when those medical bills start rolling in...

 

[AviP]

My favorite suggestion (I've made it too many times) is to drive to an empty parking lot (preferably on a wet day) and slalom your way with a very heavy foot. The car will spin donuts, you will have a blast and learn how to drive until you are at max power without losing control. Obviously you need to choose a parking lot without any barriers or cameras. And don't spend more than 15 minutes just in case the local cops gets excited. It's worked quite well for me.

And it's all in first gear!!!

 

[slysnake]

Good time to buy a car, tough time to own one. My best advice..... in Wisconson put it in the garage until about april and try to forget you have it.

 

[Roffle Waffle]

I think the best way to get used to the car is gentle throttle inputs, and shifting below 3000rpm

 

[JonB]

Now that I am a first time new owner of a new Viper and after reading all of the warnings everyone has posted I would like to learn how to drive this car safely. I live in Wisconsin and I would like to take a class that I can drive to if possible. Does anyone have any suggestions on driving classes for Viper owners? I would prefer to dive a Viper in class.
_____________________
2008 Venom Red Viper
2007 Black Z06

MIKE! Are you still here? You have an 07 Z-06, so you have handled 500 HP with lots of traction aids... Did you engage them? That is, when you drove the vette, are you feeling the aids take over while you drive aggressively? IF SO, you are wise to seek some professional help!

The Viper has no such safety net: all the Traction Control Software is between your ears.

Smoothe Inputs w/ 600HP throttle, steering, shifting, brakes are vitally important.

Parking Lot Donuts as a learning tool allow you to locate a couple of skid-pad limits. Period. How often do you drive as on a skid pad?! They dont teach you any new skills, and they can reinforce bad techniques. TAKE an HPDE CLASS... or TWO !!

[and WHAT WARFANG SAID !! I do find it ironic that one of the posters above who stated that 'classes are a waste' just totalled his Viper last month. Not his fault, but still...... One of the things you learn in driving school is to "Look Ahead" as never before.]

Cold / Damp Pavement + Cold Tires = Ditch Diving if you are not Ssssmmmmoooothe.
Best Of Luck, and call anytime: "Race Team Instructor"

 

[georgethedog]

Ok, stupid question... Yes, I know you have come to expect it. I have a Gen 2 RT/10 and it looks like you do not drive your car at the NARAA Viper Days but instead drive newer SRT models. How will they compare when I get back home? Do they drive in similar manner? Curious.

 

[VIPER GTSR 91]

Never lift !!! Seriously, take a NARRA Viper Days course if you can. At least go to a local track day weekend course with your car that has certified instructors. You will learn so much.

 

[Mike 123]

MIKE! Are you still here? You have an 07 Z-06, so you have handled 500 HP with lots of traction aids... Did you engage them? That is, when you drove the vette, are you feeling the aids take over while you drive aggressively? IF SO, you are wise to seek some professional help!

The Viper has no such safety net: all the Traction Control Software is between your ears.

Smoothe Inputs w/ 600HP throttle, steering, shifting, brakes are vitally important.

Parking Lot Donuts as a learning tool allow you to locate a couple of skid-pad limits. Period. How often do you drive as on a skid pad?! They dont teach you any new skills, and they can reinforce bad techniques. TAKE an HPDE CLASS... or TWO !!

[and WHAT WARFANG SAID !! I do find it ironic that one of the posters above who stated that 'classes are a waste' just totalled his Viper last month. Not his fault, but still...... One of the things you learn in driving school is to "Look Ahead" as never before.]

Cold / Damp Pavement + Cold Tires = Ditch Diving if you are not Ssssmmmmoooothe.
Best Of Luck, and call anytime: "Race Team Instructor"

Jon,

Thanks for the info. Is there a HPDE class that you would recommend. As for the Z06, I have pushed the car to where the traction control kicked in, but the car was still very much under control.

It is going to be a tough 3-4 months of only being able to look at the car in the garage and not be able to drive it and see what it can do.

 

[Leslie]

Ok, stupid question... Yes, I know you have come to expect it. I have a Gen 2 RT/10 and it looks like you do not drive your car at the NARAA Viper Days but instead drive newer SRT models. How will they compare when I get back home? Do they drive in similar manner? Curious.

you drive your OWN Viper at NARRA events, they run the 'racing league' in between the driver education runs.

 

[Mike 123]

It looks like the closest NARRA class is June 5 - 6 2010 Gingerman Raceway in South Haven, MI. I think I will look into going there for the classes.

 

[Bird325]

We have a NARRA event coming up in North Texas at the end of February. Having come from Sport Bikes on the same track, I'm wondering if I should get more used to the Snake with 'reasonable' driving before getting on the track or get out there with no real experience in the car?

I don't want to be laughed off the track with a stock Viper, old PS1 tires and no experience behind the wheel... these are kind of the same fears that I felt my first time on the track on two wheels a few years back. I can't afford to dump a bunch of money into track tires, wheels and equipment right now, so I'm looking to you guys for advice.

 

[3SRTsandGTS]

Mike, I highly encourage you to attend a NARRA event. In addition to learning how to drive your car better, you'll learn about tires, fluids, etc. You'll have an opportunity to talk with Viper owners who have tracked their cars for years, and typically some very high profile persons from Dodge are in attendance. What an awesome opportunity to learn about your car and talk to those who have either built your car or raced them professionally. I've instructed with NARRA/Viper Days for just over 2 years, and there are basics like proper shifting that are often overlooked. Most don't realize that ViperDays was created to save lives! It's great to have a passenger with some experience watch you drive to point out the things your not thinking about. While on the track you can drive under your limits to learn basics or find your limits. Simply tell your instructor your goals! Good luck and I hope to meet you at Gingerman. ---Dave

 

[cash84]

Hey Mike, where in WI you live? I live near Milwaukee and there are couple other Viper owners near by too. I may go with you to NARRA class. Give me a PM we can talk a few things over. Btw, get your VCA membership through here you'll want it.

 

[3SRTsandGTS]

We have a NARRA event coming up in North Texas at the end of February. Having come from Sport Bikes on the same track, I'm wondering if I should get more used to the Snake with 'reasonable' driving before getting on the track or get out there with no real experience in the car?

I don't want to be laughed off the track with a stock Viper, old PS1 tires and no experience behind the wheel... these are kind of the same fears that I felt my first time on the track on two wheels a few years back. I can't afford to dump a bunch of money into track tires, wheels and equipment right now, so I'm looking to you guys for advice.

The only concern that I would have is your Old PS1 tires. As such, I would replace them (street tires are fine) and then go out and have some fun at a NARRA event. I would also advise to replace your old PS1 tires even for the street. Think about stopping distances for new cars, and then requiring at least 60% more stopping distance for tires that are approaching replacement or old (i.e., hard). Most of the drivers at the NARRA events are on street tires and driving street cars. I've instructed viper owners ranging from 20 to 70+ at NARRA/ViperDays events. Some drivers I've had to teach how to drive a stick before we could even leave the pits. You won't be laughed at, and again, my only suggestion is to replace your tires. As I stated in a previous post, NARRA/ViperDays was developed to teach Viper owners how to safely drive their cars and in turn save lives.

 

[Mike 123]

Mike, I highly encourage you to attend a NARRA event. In addition to learning how to drive your car better, you'll learn about tires, fluids, etc. You'll have an opportunity to talk with Viper owners who have tracked their cars for years, and typically some very high profile persons from Dodge are in attendance. What an awesome opportunity to learn about your car and talk to those who have either built your car or raced them professionally. I've instructed with NARRA/Viper Days for just over 2 years, and there are basics like proper shifting that are often overlooked. Most don't realize that ViperDays was created to save lives! It's great to have a passenger with some experience watch you drive to point out the things your not thinking about. While on the track you can drive under your limits to learn basics or find your limits. Simply tell your instructor your goals! Good luck and I hope to meet you at Gingerman. ---Dave

Dave it sounds like it would be well worth the trip. Now do you drive your own car or can they provide one?