1994 Dodge Viper RT 10 2-Door Convertible
2022.0004.0001, Savoy Collection
Engine: 488 cu. in. (8L) Alum. Block, DOHV, V-10
Output: 400 HP @ 4,600 RPM
Transmission: 6 – Speed Manual
Wheelbase: 96 in.
Overall Length: 175 in.
Weight: 3,476 lbs.
Top Speed: 165 MPH
No. Produced: 2,890
Original Price: $54,500
Manufacturer: Chrysler
Having survived tough times and forsaking its heritage of fast and trend-setting cars, Chrysler settled into producing unremarkable sedans, minivans, and pickups. Even having Carroll Shelby as a consultant didn’t move the needle back toward their Hemi-powered glory days. But a brief meeting between Chrysler President Bob Lutz and styling chief Tom Gale changed everything. Lutz proposed not only a two-seater roadster similar to the Cobra, but also a fast-tracked product planning process.
A prototype emerged in less than a year after that fateful meeting and debuted at the 1989 Auto Show in Detroit. Chrysler was flooded with requests for information and orders for the Viper. A company that was on life support in the 80s conceived a car that was something people WANTED, not needed. Greenlighted for production in March 1989, the two-seat test mule was done by the year’s end, and in November 1991, the Viper entered into production and didn’t look back. The Viper played a starring role in the TV show of the same name where it masqueraded as an assault vehicle.