Purchase 06 SRT10 vs. 08 SRT10

[SYNFULL]

I totaled my 99 GTS ACR (Supercharged) in october and finally settled everything with the insurance company. I have been looking for another Viper and think I want an 06 or 08. I am trying to rationalize in my head the 08 but it's a little above what I want to spend. On the other hand I know if I get an 06 I am going to need to do some heavy mods as my last Viper put out 640 hp. My justification on the 08 is that I can pretty much leave the engine alone and do headers, exhaust, and ecu. Therefore my thinking is that if I buy and 06 which are going for the low to mid 50's it's going to cost me at least 10-15 more in mods for me to be happy with the hp. Then I am going to want to change the hood to the new style. That brings it to about or more than the price of an 08. That is unless I find a nice supercharged 06!

I am really interested in a blue with white stripes. Other choices would be black with white stripes, silver with black stripes and blue with silver stripes.
What do you guys think?

 

[DaDood]

Go with the '08! You get the added horsepower, you don't have to worry about forced induction or heavy engine work, and you get the awesome newer hood! Plus, if you're really lucky, you might find one still under a warranty. Good luck though.

 

[gtssnake]

Both Great cars.

 

[01sapphirebob]

I say go with the '08. It's a fantastic car. I love mine.

 

[Paul Hawker]

In addition to the extra 100 hp, the 08 has a stronger and smoother shifting transmission with shorter throw shifter. It has a much improved limited slip differential, has the suspension tuned for non run flat tires. The hood is better looking and does not push hot air around the a pillar and into the interior when the window is open.

It has the upgraded dual disc clutch to handle the additional hp, and lessen rotational weight.

The engine has variable valve timing, and pulls much stronger at the top.

Build quality was improved, and over all it is a smoother driving, quieter machine.

Believe the exhaust is upgraded too, eliminating the cross over behind the seats to keep the interior cooler.

Lots more went into the vehicle than just the engine.

You can build a Gen III, (or even a Gen II) up to Gen IV performance level, but you can also build the Gen IV up to Gen V levels, but it is still not the same car.

No matter what you decide, you will have a nice upgrade over your previous (RIP) Viper.

I went from a Paxton Gen III to an Intake/Exhaust Gen IV. Paxton was always blowing the tires off, and I could never really get it to put down the 1/4 mile numbers it should have. I can drive the 09 much faster, and with better control, as the naturally aspirated engine is far more predictable and repeatable.

Now, with the new Pilot Super Sports tires it runs like the wind!

 

[Steve M]

If you want to mod it heavily, the Gen III is for you...they have yet to crack the computers on the Gen IVs to allow for aftermarket tuning (although you can get the Mopar ECU).

For me, I wanted everything good to go from the start, so I went with a Gen IV. I didn't want to long for the better transmission, the dual disk clutch, the hood, the extra HP, etc. I just wanted something that was already nice out of the box that I could focus on maintaining and driving...I've had a project car, and I never got to enjoy it because something was always wrong with it.

A stock to mildly modded Gen IV won't be the fastest thing on the streets, but it is still fast, and a lot of fun to drive.

 

[SYNFULL]

If you want to mod it heavily, the Gen III is for you...they have yet to crack the computers on the Gen IVs to allow for aftermarket tuning (although you can get the Mopar ECU).

For me, I wanted everything good to go from the start, so I went with a Gen IV. I didn't want to long for the better transmission, the dual disk clutch, the hood, the extra HP, etc. I just wanted something that was already nice out of the box that I could focus on maintaining and driving...I've had a project car, and I never got to enjoy it because something was always wrong with it.

A stock to mildly modded Gen IV won't be the fastest thing on the streets, but it is still fast, and a lot of fun to drive.

Very good points. I don't want to mod my next car that much. It got to the point on my gts that it wasn't very comfortable going out with my wife to dinner etc. Don't get me wrong I loved the car and I would grin from ear to ear when I got on it, but it was a loud thundering beast. My next viper I want to be fast but also comfortable.

 

[SYNFULL]

In addition to the extra 100 hp, the 08 has a stronger and smoother shifting transmission with shorter throw shifter. It has a much improved limited slip differential, has the suspension tuned for non run flat tires. The hood is better looking and does not push hot air around the a pillar and into the interior when the window is open.

It has the upgraded dual disc clutch to handle the additional hp, and lessen rotational weight.

The engine has variable valve timing, and pulls much stronger at the top.

Build quality was improved, and over all it is a smoother driving, quieter machine.

Believe the exhaust is upgraded too, eliminating the cross over behind the seats to keep the interior cooler.

Lots more went into the vehicle than just the engine.

You can build a Gen III, (or even a Gen II) up to Gen IV performance level, but you can also build the Gen IV up to Gen V levels, but it is still not the same car.

No matter what you decide, you will have a nice upgrade over your previous (RIP) Viper.

I went from a Paxton Gen III to an Intake/Exhaust Gen IV. Paxton was always blowing the tires off, and I could never really get it to put down the 1/4 mile numbers it should have. I can drive the 09 much faster, and with better control, as the naturally aspirated engine is far more predictable and repeatable.

Now, with the new Pilot Super Sports tires it runs like the wind!

Thanks Paul! I didn't know of all the upgrades made to the 08.

 

[Ray W]

There is no comparison between a supercharged Gen III and a Gen IV with headers and pcm. Though most base supercharged cars put down 650rwhp compared to 600rwhp on a modded Gen IV. The Gen IV will be 2-3 tenths quicker in the quartermile,10-15 mph faster in the standing mile and faster on a road course. That being said a no stories 45k supercharged car vs a 65k Gen IV can be very tempting.

 

[KNG SNKE]

Very good points. I don't want to mod my next car that much. It got to the point on my gts that it wasn't very comfortable going out with my wife to dinner etc. Don't get me wrong I loved the car and I would grin from ear to ear when I got on it, but it was a loud thundering beast. My next viper I want to be fast but also comfortable.

Judging by your last car you are similar to me, once you start modding you don't stop. There was a lot of attention to detail on that car. That being said the 08 is a much better car. I would watch the auctions and classifieds until the Gen 5 starts shipping, your bound to get a good deal.

 

[Paul Hawker]

Just got off the Gen V SRT Engineers chat.

Seems as the Gen V uses the same engine as the Gen IV, but with some improved internal engineering and bolt ons. They mentioned that many of the Gen V improvements could transfer to the Gen IV with few modifications.

The new composite intake works better than custom head work, and would add additional hp and torque. You could also add the new aluminum fly wheel, and other goodies.

The new engine has better cooling and forged internals to cope with the increased hp and heat. They use sodium filled valves and other enhancements to balance the extra HP.

Believe the new tranny and diff might bolt right up too.

They did mention that in order to supercharge the new engine, compression should be reduced. Nice to know that while they are not commenting on future products, that they are at least thinking about them : >)

Think Gen IV Vipers will be pulled into the future with the development of the Gen IV.

 

[SYNFULL]

There is no comparison between a supercharged Gen III and a Gen IV with headers and pcm. Though most base supercharged cars put down 650rwhp compared to 600rwhp on a modded Gen IV. The Gen IV will be 2-3 tenths quicker in the quartermile,10-15 mph faster in the standing mile and faster on a road course. That being said a no stories 45k supercharged car vs a 65k Gen IV can be very tempting.

Very interesting Ray, I wasn't aware of that. There is a 06 Paxton on ebay with corsa exhaust but the minimum bid is 55800.
Thanks

 

[SYNFULL]

That's what I am thinking- Thanks John!

 

[shooter_t1]

Gen IV has the edge over the Gen III except in the 1st color you mentioned. No Gts Blue w/white stripes built in 08 or 09. Gotta get a 2010 if you want that color in a Gen 4. Both Tomball and woodhouse have that color.

 

[TonyCool]

Based on all the information you provided I think this is a no brainier. Go with the Gen4.

 

[Viper007Bond]

Gen IV for sure. It's just a better car.

 

[SYNFULL]

Gen IV has the edge over the Gen III except in the 1st color you mentioned. No Gts Blue w/white stripes built in 08 or 09. Gotta get a 2010 if you want that color in a Gen 4. Both Tomball and woodhouse have that color.

That's a shame, I am really liking the blue with white stripes.
I think those cars are in the 90's. Out of my price range. I think if I was going to spend that much I would go for a 2013. I've heard they might come in under 100k.
I can't see anyone buying a 2010 in the 90's if that is the case.
Thanks

 

[FrgMstr]

Paul H and Steve M both make excellent points; both very informed.

My Gen IV anecdote: I went in and talked to my certified Viper tech at the local dealership and asked him some questions about a Gen III car I was looking at buying (would have been my second Gen III). When he had answered the questions I had, I told him thanks and I was about to leave. He asked me why I was not buying a Gen IV car. I asked him why I would want to and he said to me, "Because Dodge fixed everything that was wrong with it." I knew walking out of the bay that the tech just cost me about $20K, and I am glad he did.

I have owned a Gen III and Gen IV Roadster; get the Gen IV.

 

[SYNFULL]

Thanks everyone for you input and information. I think I am going to take your advice and wait for the right 08 to show up.

 

[purplesnake]

Had both...gen IV is just better all the way around. In fact it is strange going from one to the other and basically looking over the same body, and then finding that the car feels so different.

 

[challenger&viper]

Iam not sure if that clip prove something, but it gives an idea.

TX2K12 - Supercharged 3rd Gen Viper vs 4th Gen Viper (Bolt-ons, 3.55's) :

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GntQdAYHiK8

 

[viper_itch]

I sorta went thought the same issues as you did when choosing between on 06 or 08. I knew I'd have to mod the 06 exhaust to be happy and then probably would want the hood. Add in the other improvements in the 08 and suddenly the price difference is not so much if anything. I have not kept up with 06 prices too much, but all thing being equal an 08 should be 6k-8k more, roughly. The other factor is tires... You might get a little runtime on original 08 tires. I'd call original 06 tires done for age and being run flats.

 

[SYNFULL]

I sorta went thought the same issues as you did when choosing between on 06 or 08. I knew I'd have to mod the 06 exhaust to be happy and then probably would want the hood. Add in the other improvements in the 08 and suddenly the price difference is not so much if anything. I have not kept up with 06 prices too much, but all thing being equal an 08 should be 6k-8k more, roughly. The other factor is tires... You might get a little runtime on original 08 tires. I'd call original 06 tires done for age and being run flats.

that's exactly the conclusion I have come to. All in all the price difference on the cars seems to be about 10k. It's going to cost that to get the hp out of the 06 and you still have a car that's 2 years older.

 

[KNG SNKE]

that's exactly the conclusion I have come to. All in all the price difference on the cars seems to be about 10k. It's going to cost that to get the hp out of the 06 and you still have a car that's 2 years older.

True but you have a custom car

 

[JLorello]

Iam not sure if that clip prove something, but it gives an idea.

TX2K12 - Supercharged 3rd Gen Viper vs 4th Gen Viper (Bolt-ons, 3.55's) :

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GntQdAYHiK8

How does a 650-700whp car loose to a 575-600whp car? I don't get that, don't Paxton cars trap 130-135mph? Bolt on GeN IV 130mph?

 

[Ray W]

How does a 650-700whp car loose to a 575-600whp car? I don't get that, don't Paxton cars trap 130-135mph? Bolt on GeN IV 130mph?

Between the gears 4000-6000 rpms. The power drops down lower than the N/A car and takes longer to get back to it's peak horsepower in the supercharged car.

 

[SYNFULL]

"True but you have a custom car

"

There will be time for that later...

 

[Ray W]

Hey Synful, My wife's family lives up Lansdale way. Her Uncle Dick owns Thornton's Muscle Car Restoration. You can buy my car and we can drive it up to you while making a visit.

 

[DPViper]

I owned a Gen 3 with a Paxton and currently have a Gen 4. I miss the power...get a Gen 3 and mod it!

 

[Nine Ball]

How does a 650-700whp car loose to a 575-600whp car? I don't get that, don't Paxton cars trap 130-135mph? Bolt on GeN IV 130mph?

Usually it is because of lack of driving skill. My stock engine Paxton '06 trapped 133-135, and I ran quite a few '08 coupes in the 575-630 range, and it was a close race, but the Paxton car would pull about 2 cars on them in 4th gear. 5th gear ***** in the Paxton '06 though, the rpm drop is too low. That is where the '08 will do better, at 160+ mph.