High-performance, American-made sports car targeting enthusiasts seeking raw power and track-day capability, positioned as a halo vehicle for the Dodge brand.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other exotic and high-performance sports cars such as the Chevrolet Corvette, Porsche 911, and Ferrari F430, differentiated by its V10 engine, extreme styling, and no-frills performance focus.
Key Features
Key Features:
Naturally aspirated V10 engine, rear-wheel drive, aggressive aerodynamic design, lightweight construction (for its class), powerful braking system, and a driver-focused cockpit.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Areas:
Features, Controls, Maintenance Schedules, DIY Service Activities, Towing, Safety Considerations
Covers basic operational knowledge and routine maintenance for the end-user, not advanced diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a service manual.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format Details:
Searchable PDF for ease of navigation. Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.
Print Quality
Print Quality Recommendation:
High-resolution PDF optimized for clear viewing and printing. Recommended for laser or inkjet printing.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type Recommendation:
N/A (Digital Format - printing on standard paper recommended)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V10
Engine Displacement:
8.4 Liters (8382 cc)
Engine Bore X Stroke:
102.4 mm x 100.1 mm
Engine Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Engine Power Output:
600 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine Torque Output:
560 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Performance
0-60 Mph Acceleration:
Approx. 3.5 - 3.8 seconds
Top Speed:
Approx. 200+ mph
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection
Fuel Type Recommended:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Engine Management
Engine Control Unit:
Dodge's proprietary engine management system
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
Tremec TR-6060 Manual
Number Of Gears:
6-Speed
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Manual transmission only for 2009)
Features
Transmission Features:
Heavy-duty clutch, short-throw shifter, optimized gear ratios for performance
Drivetrain
Drivetrain Layout:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Differential:
Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
177.7 inches
Width:
76.2 inches
Height:
45.1 inches
Wheelbase:
98.1 inches
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.0 inches
Interior
Seating Capacity:
2
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 6.5 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,350 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,300 lbs
Wheels Tires
Front Wheel Size:
18 x 10 inches
Rear Wheel Size:
18 x 13 inches
Front Tire Size:
P275/35ZR18
Rear Tire Size:
P345/30ZR18
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Not typically rated by NHTSA in a comprehensive manner due to low production volume and performance focus; refer to specific government safety reports if available.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, Side-impact protection, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners, Advanced structural design
Brakes
Front Brake Type:
Vented Disc
Front Brake Diameter:
14.0 inches
Rear Brake Type:
Vented Disc
Rear Brake Diameter:
13.0 inches
Brake Calipers:
Typically 4-piston front and rear (may vary by specific trim/options)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM/CD audio system with optional SiriusXM satellite radio. May include auxiliary input.
Speaker System:
Standard 6-speaker audio system.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, ESC, TCS. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Limited connectivity, primarily focused on audio sources. No Bluetooth or USB for smartphone integration in base models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific driving conditions).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage intervals for spark plug replacement, coolant flush, and transmission fluid service.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (Meets Chrysler MS-10715 specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7 quarts (7.0 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT) - 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula (Orange)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI or equivalent (for Tremec TR-6060 manual transmission)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Differential Fluid Type:
Synthetic 75W-90 (API GL-5 specification), may require limited-slip additive
Known Issues
Known Issues Common To Model:
Clutch wear due to aggressive driving, potential for oil leaks (especially valve cover gaskets), exhaust system heat management, occasional electrical gremlins (typical for low-volume, high-performance cars).
Filters
Oil Filter Part Number:
Refer to dealer or specialized parts catalog (e.g., Mopar MO-349, Wix 57123, Fram PH10575 - verify compatibility).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of performance vehicles, dating back to the muscle car era. The Viper was conceived as a modern interpretation of American performance and exotic car DNA.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution To 2009:
The 2009 Viper represents the fourth generation (ZB III), introduced in 2008. It featured significant updates including a larger V10 engine, improved aerodynamics, enhanced interior, and updated safety systems over previous generations.
Production
Production Location:
Connor Avenue Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA
Production Years For Gen 4:
2008-2010
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
Consistently praised for its raw performance and distinct character. Often featured in 'best sports car' lists by automotive publications for its class.
Ratings
Performance Ratings:
High ratings for acceleration, braking, and handling from automotive journalists and performance enthusiasts.
Certifications
Certifications:
N/A (Not applicable for consumer-facing certifications).
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