I'm new to the forum, but have been reading thru threads for a couple months now. I'm interested in an 08 Viper and have been trying to educate myself on the mechanicals of the car. From the homework I've done, it appears the 08's have some very favorable changes compared to the previous few years. I'm leaning towards a vert, and don't plan on taking full advantage of what the car can do (ie, track or drags). I do however have a couple concerns if I ever change my mind and decide to run the car as it was designed. Here are the issues:
1) I keep reading about engine oil starvation due to the lack of a dry sump system. Was this remedied in 08? If not, does Mopar offer an upgrade? What goes into fixing the issue (I'm not a mechanic or engineer, so I'm not sure if it's just an oil pan replacement or some other type of in-depth upgrade). Is this upgrade pricey?
2) Why are the rotors not cross-drilled? I'm not even sure if cross-drilled add any "real" cooling effect on the rotors/pads, but they do look good. Are there any recommended cross-drilled systems that are recommended, and what would I be looking at in price?
3) I've been reading about weak diffs in these cars. Hype or real issue and what cost is involved to upgrade?
4) I know the interior heat has been reduced in 08, and it appears the paint application seems to be better (internet talk seems to say so). I've driven an 06 and have to admit that the suspension setting and run-flats made wandering and expansion joint crossings a horrific experience. That too seems to have been addressed for 08. So, are there any other complaints with the new cars?
I really love the looks and power and can't imagin what an additional 95 horses can do. I'm a little concerned about durability/reliability since two of the pre-owned ones I've looked at had issues (check engine light on, tach not running smoothly, excessive interior wear, etc...). When I read internet talk, I'm hearing these machines are VERY durable purpose built machines. So, any feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Oh, this will be a third vehicle only used for fun and open top cruising and not as a daily driver. Thanks again for your help.
I'm new to the forum, but have been reading thru threads for a couple months now. I'm interested in an 08 Viper and have been trying to educate myself on the mechanicals of the car. From the homework I've done, it appears the 08's have some very favorable changes compared to the previous few years. I'm leaning towards a vert, and don't plan on taking full advantage of what the car can do (ie, track or drags). I do however have a couple concerns if I ever change my mind and decide to run the car as it was designed. Here are the issues:
1) I keep reading about engine oil starvation due to the lack of a dry sump system. Was this remedied in 08? If not, does Mopar offer an upgrade? What goes into fixing the issue (I'm not a mechanic or engineer, so I'm not sure if it's just an oil pan replacement or some other type of in-depth upgrade). Is this upgrade pricey?
The 2008 Viper has a swinging oil pickup setup that is similar to the Competition Coupes. Oil Starvation should no longer be an issue
2) Why are the rotors not cross-drilled? I'm not even sure if cross-drilled add any "real" cooling effect on the rotors/pads, but they do look good. Are there any recommended cross-drilled systems that are recommended, and what would I be looking at in price?
Cross drilling reduces surface area and in many cases increases warping. The stock Viper brake system is probably as good as any brake system on any car at any price. Aftermarket drilled rotors are available if you must have the look
3) I've been reading about weak diffs in these cars. Hype or real issue and what cost is involved to upgrade?
The differential in the cars is totally new (GKN Viscolok). It is supposed to be stronger and coupled with the slightly less crazy low end torque of the new motor, it can be surmised it will hold up better to abuse. However, the car has not been out long enough to say 100% for sure.
4) I know the interior heat has been reduced in 08, and it appears the paint application seems to be better (internet talk seems to say so). I've driven an 06 and have to admit that the suspension setting and run-flats made wandering and expansion joint crossings a horrific experience. That too seems to have been addressed for 08. So, are there any other complaints with the new cars?
According to our own members, the new car has an electronic throttle that hangs on a little longer than most would prefer. As mentioned, it has a little less grunt down low, but mid and high power is MUCH improved.
I really love the looks and power and can't imagin what an additional 95 horses can do. I'm a little concerned about durability/reliability since two of the pre-owned ones I've looked at had issues (check engine light on, tach not running smoothly, excessive interior wear, etc...). When I read internet talk, I'm hearing these machines are VERY durable purpose built machines. So, any feedback would be greatly appreciated!
I can't think of a single sport/super car that is more reliable and durable than a Viper. Occasionally they have little electronic quirks, but they are rarely anything major. One does pay a Viper tax for some things, but other parts are actually fairly reasonable. I think you will find the 08 to be a daily drivable car that you could put over 100k miles on without any major issues.
Oh, this will be a third vehicle only used for fun and open top cruising and not as a daily driver. Thanks again for your help.
Responses are in bold. Lastly, remember that the 2008 Viper is sold out. You will have to wait for 1) a cancellation 2)a used one or 3)a 2009 model. Hope that answers your questions.
Wow! I couldn't have asked for a better response. Thank you very, very much. Believe it or not, a local dealer has two that are available. Just trying to come to grips on the price. I would prefer a pre-owned, but having a difficult time waiting. It seems as if Dodge corrected nearly all the shortcomings of the 505 hp cars. Can't wait to get my hands on one to call my own.
I can answer one of your concerns. I traded my 07 Z06 for a 08 Viper coupe, there is far less (50-70%) cabin heat in the Viper.
That's interesting. I looked at the Z06 but the wife insists on a vert, plus I LOVE the looks of the Viper and LIKE the looks of the vette. I know I'm in the minority, but I kinda like the idea of having traction/stability control on the Z06. Would you mind sharing your opinion concerning both vehicles?
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