I'm not sure the Viper has to have a DCT to be successful versus a non DCT auto. I've driven a couple of cars this year that had paddle shifters with a "traditional" torque converter type automatic and I think they would work well in a Viper. A lot of how a traditional automatic behaves when being driven on the track or in a high performance setting depends on the programming of the transmission, shift points, shift speed, etc. Too many people assume that it is going to feel like their Buick commuter car. The shifts can be very fast and the driver can control more of the shift points, etc if the system is tuned and designed for that. I've had cars that will snap your neck on each shift if the trans was built to do this. I've also driven so-called sports cars that would not downshift when I wanted them to because the computer would not allow it at the speed vs rpm I was at.
I have no lab test proof, but I would think a DCT would be most beneficial in a higher revving car that is light on the torque. Since I don't see the factory V10 going beyond 6500 rpm anytime soon, a traditional performance automatic with 7 to 8 gears may fit the bill better since the NA motor of the V10 has lots of torque and not as many revs like just about everybody else out there. The torque converter might also be a benefit to absorb some of the torque shock from the NA motor, allow better drag launches and maybe be easier on the rest of the chassis. Modern autos are very efficient so power robbing would be the least of my worries with the HP and torque a Viper produces. Lastly, if going to an auto trans, this is the perfect time to mate it with an electronic differential to allow it to compete with the other supercars out there.
I rented a Maserati GranTurismo (with traditional automatic) while on vacation near Palm Springs. I took the car one afternoon and went west on Hiway 74. This is a great road with lots of elevation change and tons of twisty turns. I was impressed at how fast the traditional transmission would shift and most importantly downshift when I wanted it to. It was a blast and would be perfectly happy if a auto trans would behave like that one did in a Viper. The Maserati did have a higher rpm range than a Viper, but way, way less torque. I honestly think if programmed correctly, a traditional auto would work well in a Viper for those that don't want a manual.
Not all supercars run the DCT, I do believe the Lambos are a single clutch auto style (harsher shifts, but lighter and less power robbing according to Lambo than a DCT). And for those looking at the Audi R8, this newest auto version is apparently superior than the previous generation. If you can't get the newest, I would stick with the manual on the R8.
Now here is the question I'm most concern with regarding an auto for the Viper (regardless of the design)....will it do five 20 minute sessions in 100 degree plus heat for an open track day and not overheat?? There are other DCT's on the market that cannot do more than 4 or 5 laps in the heat without going into limp mode, the Nissan GT-R being one that I have experience with.
Cheers,
George
