VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy?

Chuck 98 RT/10

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

I don't mean to sound like it isn't worth it. More like, is it in my budget? Being that it is during the week and I can track Viper Days the following weekend makes it good. Are there any open track events the previous weekend?
 

Newport Viper

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

VOI 5 was VERY expensive for me! Got married that weekend! Look in Viper Mag.















Got divorced 2 years later. Ouch $$$$$$$$$$
 

C O D Y

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

You ready to try again? :)

VOI 5 was VERY expensive for me! Got married that weekend! Look in Viper Mag.















Got divorced 2 years later. Ouch $$$$$$$$$$
 

SRT10

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

No matter how I work the numbers I can't justify spending the cash and losing two weeks off of work without pay. All things being equal I see at least $3600 in cost before the strippers and gas bills. Tires, gambling, flight tickets, booze make it even more painful.

Third VOI I'll be missing...

Aw come on! You won a Competition Coupe in the raffle. It would be great to bring it to VOI 9 and take it on the track.
It would be a treat for everyone to see it in person!
 

Andrew2KRT10

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

I've been to two VOI's. It's fun, somewhat worth the $$, but it is a little steep when you add up all the expenses, including time off from work and the cross country trip if you ship.

I have to laugh at one thing though; "Renting out the entire Las Vegas Motor Speedway and including ultra high speeds on the NASCAR oval"

Give me a break. Both VOI's I went to they were so paranoid of people getting out of control, they kept us to about 80 - 90 MPH. I had to cheat and lay back to get it up to 100 + . That right there is enough for me not to go.

Way to much of an ordeal from NY. By that time I'm event-wasted, kids start school, winter around the corner. I'll wait for an east side VOI again.

AC
 

rcdice

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

"Give me a break. Both VOI's I went to they were so paranoid of people getting out of control, they kept us to about 80 - 90 MPH. I had to cheat and lay back to get it up to 100 + . That right there is enough for me not to go. "

Is that seriously true? This will be my first VOI. One of the things I was most looking forward to was being able to run the car "well" into the triple digits in a safe/legal environment. Will that not be the case? :confused: What happens if you do, do they kick you off the track? :(
 

Janni

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

DO NOT go to VOI for track time. Do you really think you'll get sustained triple digit speeds when an instructor hops into your car for 3 or 4 laps, with you and your borrowed helmet in a car that hasn't been tech inspected and you'll be allowed to go diving into turn one at 140???????

They do rent the entire facility - but it's mostly because they have multiple events there - autocross, off roading in Dodge branded vehicles, road coarse, use the garages for lunch and vendor set ups, etc.

Go to Viper Days for track time - you go to VOI for the experience.

When you look at what you get - all your food and all your entertainment as well as some very nice goodies, and access to the Dodge folks, $200-$300 per day is NOT expensive. But, you have to do everything to take advantage of what's offered and feel like you got your money's worth.

Even if your spouse doesn't want to do the road course or drag racing or whatever - usually the Neon autocross and the test drive area (and oh God - if they have the SKIDPAD!!!!) that keeps folks pretty entertained. Crap I could be on the skidpad all day if they'd let me.

It's great to hook up with some other couples and go through the entire weekend together - your spouse will have more fun than you think.
 

ViperJohn

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

I hit 140 to 150 almost every lap out at VOI 8, nobody ever said a word. My understanding was they just didn't want anyone to shift out of 4th on the front straights. I had no problem with them having "roll-off" and "roll-on" cones going into turn 1 and 2. Makes it safer, plus you have a mix of drivers out there at any given time.

You have drivers with different abilities and how much risk they want to take in their car. The track event at VOI 8 was the best part for me. I even went back there on the free day.
 

AviP

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

DO NOT go to VOI for track time.
I agree with Janni. You get about 4 laps and that's it. If you want track time, go to your local track and spend the money there. VOI track time is for those who have never tracked before and just want the experience.
 

Catwood

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

NO TRACK TIME?????

Well...I thought that was what it was all about, guess I misunderstood.
 

Andrew2KRT10

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

See, that's the whole thing. You go to VOI to hear talks about what dodge is doing, to check out all the vendor booths in the exhibit hall, Spend even more money on stuff to nuy, to go on some cruises, have some good meals, and to get some free goodies. It is fun, but worth the time and money? Depends on what you want to spend your money on. It comes to personal preference. That's why I say I add up all the other events I do and then I decide if I really need VOI to complete my season.

I'm not knocking it, but it might not be for everyone.

AC
 

Bill Pemberton Woodhouse

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

Keep in mind this is the Viper Owner's Invitational, not the Viper Club of America's Invitational, so DC is the one dumping in loads of cash. The previous estimates over the years have been 2-5 million and you don't see GM , Ford, or any other car company footing the bill for this kind of gathering. With around 1200-1500 Viper owners, Worldwide , showing up, this is one crazy party that is unheard of anywhere. Yes, it is a bit more than in the past , but folks begged to go to Vegas, and unlike the days of old , this is no longer a 99 cent shrimp cocktail town. Staying at the Venetian, going to a World Class track with a dragstrip on site and having all the amenities of this wacko town at your doorstep, hopefully will mean a ton more Snakecharmers show up.

If cost is a concern to you consider:

Share a room with a fellow Viper owner --- good way to get to know one of your fellow Forum members, local club member,etc., and it will keep your costs down.
Leave your Viper at home. Sure this doesn't sound quite as fun, but with all the folks that bring their cars, and all the ones at the track brought in by DC, there will be things to have fun in.
Pay your airfare early , as rates are usually great to Vegas unless you wait till the last minute.
Hang around the Germans, as they tend to drink alot and often they buy fellow Viper owners mass quantities of alcoholic beverages --- this will cut down on your liquor bill.
Hang around the English, as they tend to drink alot and often they will buy fellow Viper owners mass quantities of alcoholic beverages ---this will cut down on your liquor bill.
Hang around the Canadians/Canadiens , as they tend to drink alot and often will buy fellow Viper owners mass quantities of alcoholic beverages - this will cut down on your liquor bill.
Stay away from the Viper owners from Nebraska , as they won't buy you a darn thing, but you can usually find them hanging around with:
a) Germans
b) Englishmen
c) Canadians/Canadiens

Many of us have gone over the years and though it has never been inexpensive the things you bring home are priceless;
1. Comraderie with Viper Owners , Worldwide.
2. Vendors from around the Country and chances to get all kinds of answers to many questions/concerns about your Viper.
3. Dang near your own private, exclusive Car Show, with all the prototypes, showcars, etc. that Dodge brings for our approval and enjoyment.
4. SRT seminars, SRT Marketing folks, SRT Engineers, in depth analysis of many Viper related themes and the people who have the pulse of our favorite machine -- there to talk to you , face to face.
5. Phenomenal meals, drinks, appetizers, favors, and more remembrance gifts than you can imagine.
6. Friendships started on the Internet, become even stronger when you can put a face to your fellow Forum members.
7. Did I mention partying with the Canadians?
8. Driving events with DC providing the cars.
9. You get to hang out with Joe Houss ---- he likes Vodka!
10. Opportunity to meet your National Officers, Regional Officers, and let them know what you want from the Club. This is an invitation to all Viper owners, but there will be an abundance of VCA individuals present.


Start saving now, and it won't seem so bad, as I guarantee once you get to Vegas the party,comraderie, convention, vendors, racing, cruising, entertainment , will all make it worthwhile.

Ask someone who has been, and you will find most will comment on what a great experience it was.

Respectfully,
Bill Pemberton
:nana:
 

Cop Magnet

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

I think both side of this issue are making great arguments. I think what the pro-VOI guys don't realize is that no one here is unappreciative of what a great all-around experience this could be. The difference is that many of use perceive the "dream week" you outline as being primarily a track event--yes, God forbid, just like Viper Days--but with the parties, factory support, trackside events, display cars, camaraderie, meals, and everything else associated with VOI. We're drivers. The rest is fluff. Yes, it sounds like fun, but I am withdrawing my consideration for going based on the description of the focus of the event. Switch it around, and make it a track-first event, and I would seriously consider going.

Just my .02
 

Catwood

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

I don't mean to sound like it isn't worth it. More like, is it in my budget? Being that it is during the week and I can track Viper Days the following weekend makes it good. Are there any open track events the previous weekend?

www.touringcarclub.com

Same weekend

Sept 2nd and 3rd is West Coast Viper at Willow. That will be a great event. If manny can't store your car the whole time I can drum up room in mine for a bit.

Carl
 

ViperGTS

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

Hang around the Germans, as they tend to drink alot and often they buy fellow Viper owners mass quantities of alcoholic beverages --- this will cut down on your liquor bill.
Hang around the English, as they tend to drink alot and often they will buy fellow Viper owners mass quantities of alcoholic beverages ---this will cut down on your liquor bill.
Hang around the Canadians/Canadiens , as they tend to drink alot and often will buy fellow Viper owners mass quantities of alcoholic beverages - this will cut down on your liquor bill.
Stay away from the Viper owners from Nebraska , as they won't buy you a darn thing, but you can usually find them hanging around with:
a) Germans
b) Englishmen
c) Canadians/Canadiens


Wilhelm! You are the man! CU in L.V. for a beer or two ... :)
 

pdmracing

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

Joe Dell, Im joining this post late so excuse me if I am rehashing but........

My first VOI was vegas in 99 and compared to that event, all other VOIs that I have attended frankly sucked in comparison. & that was when vegas was tring to be family friendly!(kids in the casinos @ 4am is not my cup o tea).

Trust me the price will be worth it! see ya there
 

C O D Y

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

Vegas, VEgas, VEGas, VEGAs, VEGAS.... Ya Baby!

Win the costs back at the tables! :nana:
 

Paul Hawker

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

About this track thing. It depends greatly on your point of view.

For most Viper Owners this is an experience not to be missed. Most have never had the chance to drive on a NASCAR Oval, slither through a road course, or run down a NHRA 1/4 mile dragstrip. You will be accompanied on the big track with a professional instructor. If you make him feel comfortable, you can go very fast. If you are driving in an unsafe manner, he will encourage you to get back into control.

On the skid pad/salom course/dragstrip, you get to drive by yourself, as these are much safer venues.

Believe me, these experiences will provide memories to last a lifetime.

For current racers, yes this will be a little tame. ViperDays provides a more racing environment. Most of our Members don't want to race on the ragged edge, but get the chance to drive their Vipers on the same track as their NASCAR heros.

Carl...You are a track rat (thats a compliment from me). If you want to get giggy with it, sign up with Skip to see if they will be doing a demonstration of the Viper Racing League. Last time that was our lunch time entertainment. This is real door to door racing with well prepared Vipers. No instructors in the cars, and it is all out racing. Time to step up my man. These guys are real pros, and turn in some daunting times.

Again, for the average member, the track experience is done to perfection. You get the panorama group photo shot for hanging in your den or office, 2 days on the track, and pictures of yourself in your Viper with your racing helmet on to wow your friends next time you watch the Speed channel telling everyone that you also had run on that track.
 

Catwood

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

Paul...can you sponser me and my new comp coupe? :)
 

luc

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

I don't know about the other costs, but renting a track, including everything, ( insurance,corner workers, ambulance,fire crew,tow truck,etc ) cost anywhere between $10K to $15K per day depending and dates,tracks,etc.

Luc.00GTS

PS: I do know what I'm talking about since I run an open-track/race club on the west coast (NCRACING.ORG)
 

Detlef

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

VOI8 was great on the track, especially Sunday (the open day). 140mph was very common. Once the instructors got to know you and your driving style, there were no misunderstandings. Funny, though when the first thing the instructor asked me was whether I drive or trailored my car to VOI. If ya drive it, you're planning on driving it back and that made them feel better.
 

Bonkers

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

Aw come on! You won a Competition Coupe in the raffle. It would be great to bring it to VOI 9 and take it on the track. It would be a treat for everyone to see it in person!

I no longer own the RCC, its been long gone. I mentioned to the new owner about VOI, but its entirly his decision to make the trip down.

For me and my wife I'm figuring a cool $5000 total cost for the event (I've already been told I've underestimated.) I paid just a little more to take six people on a Bermuda cruise where beds, food, and transportation were provided. $1700 for two people and you don't even get a place to sleep? Sorry, the pathetic cheapskate in me just can't let that go.

Maybe VOIX they'll hold two so everyone can attend - one left coast, on right. If they're smart they hold them to different weeks, which would allow the more affluient hard-cores amoung us to attend both.
 

Warfang

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

Even if your spouse doesn't want to do the road course or drag racing or whatever - usually the Neon autocross and the test drive area (and oh God - if they have the SKIDPAD!!!!) that keeps folks pretty entertained.

What if the spouse wants NO behind-the-wheel time? $850 for just food and yucks while everyone else is getting track time seems unfair. There should be a no-track admission for $500.
 

SSSSE YA

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

I agree it is a lot of money BUT You must go at least once and have total Viper fun and meet and make some new friends.. I am going along with some So Cal Viper Club members who have become close friends and family.

:2tu: :usa:
 

rcdice

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

Just to be clear... If we're going to be limited to 80-90 mph on the big track, what are we limited to on the NHRA drag strip? Will we only be allowed to run 1/16 of a mile at a top speed of 35 mph? Or, will we be able to blister the 1/8 at something still south of 100?

Sorry to be so sarcastic. I'm sure I'll still go, but man, what a bubble burst. No, I didn't think I'd be able to drive an instructor around at 140 mph, but YES, I did think I'd be able to drive myself around the track at that speed. I swear to you know who, If I get a ticket out in the desert, DCX is paying for it.
 

GR8_ASP

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

I swear to you know who, If I get a ticket out in the desert, DCX is paying for it.

Don't wish that too loud. Got me a big one last time at VOI5
 
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Joseph Dell

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

I'm sure it has been thought before, but maybe not said: Who wants to bring their spouse to Vegas? Isn't that against the law?

:p

JD
 

Paul Hawker

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

As far as pricing. I just got my invitation to the Mercedes AMG Challenge. It is a one day event, held in the armpit area of Fontana, Ca. Driving instruction and track experience. $1,195 per DAY!. Makes VOI look like a bargain.

For you track guys. If you have the experience and the properly prepared cars, contact Skip about doing the lunch hour Viper Racing League. Real door to door racing, on a NASCAR track and road course.

Carl...Check with Courtney...See if you can work something out. (You know).

Remember. For those of you that do not bring your cars, Dodge usually generously offers you to drive their Vipers at the track. No extra charge.
 

Newport Viper

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

Hey, VOI's are only once every year and a half!!! Save your pennies!!! Not that big a deal. $$
 

C O D Y

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Re: VOI9 prices - holy #@!$ !!! am I the only one who thinks this is crazy

Do you bring sand to the beach?

I'm sure it has been thought before, but maybe not said: Who wants to bring their spouse to Vegas? Isn't that against the law?

:p

JD
 

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