I'm looking for a 1996-2002 Viper GTS coupe. I'm just curious what the difference is between the early cars and the last models in this range? Are there things I should be looking for? Certain benefits\issues with certain years, etc?
If you wish to remain stock or do some minor power upgrades (600 RWHP or less), you might consider a 2001 or 2002, as they have ABS to start with. If you are going to do something a little bigger (850 RWHP or less) and don't mind minor upgrades to the brakes, then get a 99 or earlier, as they have forged pistons and will not require an engine rebuild. If you plan to go all out, then I would say just get the one in the best shape you can, as both systems will probably be torn out and majorly upgraded anyway.
Thanks guys. One other question I forgot to ask. I'm 6 foot 4 and 225lbs. Am I going to fit in one of these? How's the headroom?
Also, were there any recalls or know issues I should know to ask a prospective seller?
Thanks guys. One other question I forgot to ask. I'm 6 foot 4 and 225lbs. Am I going to fit in one of these? How's the headroom?
Also, were there any recalls or know issues I should know to ask a prospective seller?
I'm 6'3" 220 and I barely fit man.
Perfect but barely.
Depends on your torso / leg length.
If you do it, you will have to get a seat lowering kit.
Sit in one before you do anything else.
Good luck as I will say, there is nothing more fun than cruising around in a Viper bro.
Cheers
Last edited by woodyz viper : August 7th, 2006 at 07:57 PM.
Good luck as I will say, there is nothing more fun than cruising around in a Viper bro.
Hmmm, Dunno about that one!
Naw Woodyz right, although if you've driven other exotics you already unterstand.
I've got a 2000 which everyone calls a 'creampuff' due to the pistons and milder cam, but I like to say it's the last model available without ABS.. I likes to do my own modulation!
Your height might be the only issue. I am 6'2", 270 and fit fine, but I am not sure what the headroom might be like with you being two inches taller. As mentioned before, just sit in one and see how it feels. Just an fyi, the viper is easily the roomiest exotic available(if you consider it an exotic). Also as mentioned before, there are seat lowering kits available if you decide you do need some extra headroom.
I can tell you right now your going to have difficulty fitting in the viper ... you should fit but your knees WILL hit the dash and it will be like a jungle gym to get in and out , if youve got wide shoulers or torso , you will feel confined ...
Ive never heard anybody call the viper roomy , now that I think about it , it could be the most cramped , difficult to get in car that I know of ( besides a lotus elise )
For a bigger guy , you might be better off with an '06 Z06 or a Ford GT ...
Even though I have a '98, I would go with the '99 as the best year. One of the biggest improvements I wish I had was the inside trunk release, as stupid as it sounds it is a pain in the ass not to have. I locked my keys in the trunk once, oh that was fun trying to squeeze into the back and reach them down in the well. The 18" wheels don't make much difference to me, I like my polished 5 spokes better than the '99 rims. The '99's have electric mirrors, but I can't see needing that too often unless you have multiple drivers. Mine has a very rough lumpy cam which I like, it sounds like a performance cam, not a stocker.
I personally did not like the 18" rims on the 99's when I was looking. I thought the rims on the 98's were a better style. Just an opinion though...I wouldn't kick either one out of the garage
Last edited by clearcut3 : September 6th, 2006 at 02:26 PM.
At 4'0" and 270lbs....I wish the set was a little higher. Looking over the dash is a bitch. Also, the seats are a little small for my ass.
Really though. I like picked up a 01/02 because of the ABS. It's much cheaper to install new pistions and a fat cam, than to install ABS. Also, If you going to build the motor your going to toss a nice set of stock forged pistions if you get a 96-99. I'm 5'5 and 170lbs and I fit just fine. It's as if the car was made just for me.
I personally did not like the 18" rims on the 99's when I was looking. I thought the rims on the 98's were a better style. Just an opinion though...I wouldn't kick either one out of the garage
