I just took a 98 GTS coupe out for a test drive, it has 16000kms on it. I wanted to know if there are any things I should look out for in the model years 98-01 GTS coupe or ACR edition.
I am looking to buy one in the next month. This 98 seemed to have a noise in the clutch, sounded like the clutch plate. When the clutch was not in, it was making a clunking noise. Is this normal for the viper?
All in all, the viper drives better than I had expected and the power is there throughout the rpm band. I know the pre 2000's have the forged internals but outside of that what is the better year to buy? I won't be charging the motor, just minor mods.
Does the lumpier cam mean a more aggresive ride or more power or you just feel it more at idle?
I don't really care about the abs brakes so it will not be a deciding factor for me.
What about power? ECU programming? What years seem to be the quickest right out of the box?
Rob, 2000+ gen 2's are lighter and stronger than 99's and earlier according to dyno tests on stock cars. The lumpy cam only adds rattles in your tranny. There are no facts proving they are stronger than 2000+ cream puffs.
It was rumored that DC raised the HP in 2000 by lowering the reciprocating mass internally. Dyno test have proven this on STOCK cars.
Rob, 2000+ gen 2's are lighter and stronger than 99's and earlier according to dyno tests on stock cars. The lumpy cam only adds rattles in your tranny. There are no facts proving they are stronger than 2000+ cream puffs.
It was rumored that DC raised the HP in 2000 by lowering the reciprocating mass internally. Dyno test have proven this on STOCK cars.
Also.. the fastest 1/4 mile time for a stock Viper recorded by a magazine driving a 2000 RT/10 that ran an 11.77
LoL you guys serious? Or just trying to screw the poor guy up?
Rob,
99 and older Gen 2's consistently put down more hp and torque than 2000+, and if you mod them the power gains get more and more apparant. Not to mention the fact that 99 and older have forged pistons, which are much stronger than the later cast versions.
You can look this up for your self on the other site, just look at dyno day's results.
There are some seriously fast modded creampuffs out there but I suggest stick to pre '00.
RE your issue...replace the clutch (from your description - if the clunking is coming from the rear, that is a different issue). Since you will be replacing it...might as well upgrade it ( perhaps Centerforce...others here are more knowledgeable in this this area than I). See...it happens that fast - another mod
Have it inspected by a Viper Tech. If a member here lives by you, ask them to look at it as well. Many little things to check.
Replace ALL fluids. Have it aligned. Possibly new skins (get Kumho V700's) if the tires are older (even if they have plenty of tread). Every time you have the hood open - ensure that the power steering cap is tight.
It seems like pre 2000 is the wisest choice if I am concerned with optimal power. Looks like my friend will be buying the 98 I tried out so I will be searching for a good deal.
I know a few people are pm me with their cars but the vipers in Toronto have dropped in price. The 98 was going for $56000CDN so I don't believe anybody could compete with pricing. Plus I have to worry about shipping and converting the details to make the car legal in Canada.
I appreciate all of the advice and please keep it coming.
1 more question, can you lower the ACR edition viper with factory suspension?
Also, what kind of brakes do the vipers have? 4 piston? rotor size?
Yes, the ride hieght is easily adjustable on the ACR's.
Also for those pre '00 lovers, here's is a quote from Bill Pemberton that I saved for this type of discussion. We all know Bill P right? :thumb:
Quote:
Actually, it was the same reason Porsche and Chevy ( Corvette ZO6 ) did the change. New technology, less reciprocating mass, and a smoother running engine. Everyone seems to forget the fastest stock time with a Viper was an RT-10 Creampuff , at Englishtown. If you went to the Plant in 2000, they discussed the power increase ( obviously never shown on paper ) with the new motor, and this seemed to bear fruit with those of us running Viper Days. The years have caused folks to wax poetic on what is good or better for Snakes, but many forgot the rumors throughout 99 that the car was the heaviest ever made, and the PCM was changed and power was down. The Creampuff perception is just that, and though many of us liked the lumpy cams ( the severe petrolheads amongst the owners ) , there were quite a few complaints from others --- since neutral gear rattle and other issues popped up from this situation. The move by DC was seen as a way to lighten some internal components, alleviate some owner complaints, and go with new technology. I seriously doubt anyone questioned why Porsche went in that direction, yet it does give us all something to discuss over and over at Viper Functions.
Remember the best year for a Viper , ever, is the year you own. :thumbs:
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