DAMASCUS, Md. (MarketWatch) — From performance to penny-pinching, there should be something for everyone in Detroit’s 2013 lineup, featuring the resurrected Viper from Chrysler, a generation-ending Corvette from Chevrolet and updated gas-sippers from Ford and Chevy.
If there is one constant link in my research of 2013 models, it is that Detroit finally got the word that weight reduction is a must. While most customers won’t notice it, shedding a few pounds should improve gas mileage across the board.
Chrysler
Rebounding Chrysler will offer driving enthusiasts a redesigned Viper and Viper GTS. It was designed to maintain all the traits that made the old Viper what it was before production ceased in 2010: No automatic tranny, no cup holders, no automatic parking systems here. It’s raw power, excellent handling and lower weight for the return in ’13.
2013 SRT Viper
ESTIMATED PRICE $95,000
ENGINE 8.4L V-10
640 hp
FUEL Premium
EPA RATING Not yet rated
CAPACITY 2 adults
HANDLING Should be spectacular
POWER Breathtaking
RON'S RATING All hail the Snake
Performance remains the name of the game as an 8.4-liter V-10 still lurks under the hood with its 640-horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque that Chrysler claims is the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports car engine in the world. Various engine modifications result in gains of 40 hp and 40 pound-feet of torque. It will be tied only to a six-speed manual transmission. Top speed is a touch over 200 mph, with 0 to 60 in the low 3-second range. The GTS will be more oriented to the weekend racing enthusiast with a SRT track package featuring Pirelli P Zero Z-rated tires among other items.
Drivers who want to burn rubber will love the steering-wheel-mounted launch control in both models. Overall structure stiffness is said to be up by 50%, with about a 100-pound weight reduction thanks to the Viper’s carbon fiber and aluminum body.
Exterior styling remains identifiable as a Viper but with many new touches. It’s what Chrysler designers call “a naked woman on a beach” style
Inside, there is improved legroom, higher class materials and an analog tach readout with the option of an additional digital speed readout on a customizable color screen between the instruments. The new Viper will also include a lap timer. A separate 8.4 inch touchscreen houses radio, climate controls, navigation and phone controls. It is also inside that we see the influence of Fiat FIATY -2.14% IT:F -0.71% , Chrysler’s Italian owners, with seats from Sabelt, the same company that produces them for Ferrari.
The snake will have stability control for the first time but in the U.S. it can be switched off. All scoops and vents are functional, a priority according to the top brass. Look for the 2013 Viper to hit the streets in fourth quarter of 2012.
Early Take: It might lead you to a tattoo.
it might lead you to a tattoo
