During the dark days, Dodge had a build up of unsold Viper inventory. They offered $10-20K to the dealers to move them. A bunch of lucky Viper buyers got great deals at the time, but once the excess inventory was worked through, the prices went back up.
Dealers are now sitting on short inventories, with most having little selection. If you want a specific color/accessories package, there is little shopping around.
Dealers know they will no be able to restock their inventory for quite a while. Most of the 2013 production will be snapped up by buyers already on their waiting lists.
I have not heard of any dealers gouging due to limited inventory, but they need to make a little profit to stay in business until next year when the Gen V production ramps up.
These, in stock, 08-09-10 Vipers are the highest development of the the Viper production to date. They are fantastic cars, and to me well worth the money asked. I understand everybody wants a better deal than anyone else, but that will not get you on the road.