Acceleration
"Explosive, even at part-throttle, even from modest rpm. No opportunity yet to time, but Dodge targets under 4 sec 0-60 mph, over 190-mph top speed. Clutch, gearshift demand deliberate action, but are not taxing. "

Value
Viper is an emotional statement that makes little sense as daily transportation. A Chevrolet Corvette or base Porsche 911 mimics its usable street performance at lower cost and with more refinement.

Ride
"Never full-out brutal, but always firm and frequently choppy. Can jar if tar strips or pavement seams simultaneously hit both front tires or both rear tires. Impressive absence of structural flex."

Economy
Test Viper convertible averaged 10.6 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving. We have not yet driven a coupe. Premium-grade fuel required.

Noise
"Big V10 loafs at highway speeds, so quiet at cruise, but even mild throttle triggers an intrusive roar from side exhaust outlets. Wind, road noise always present, but no more meddlesome than in other high-performance convertibles, top up or down."

Comfort - Front
"Firm, form-hugging seats supportive in turns, but climbing into or out of is a chore. Seats lack height adjustment, and close-set pedals are skewed far to left, but power pedals a plus. Engine heat turns footwells into ovens--and doorsills are hot to the touch from exhaust pipes within."

Comfort - Rear
(No rear seating.)

Controls
"Self-evident controls. Generic Dodge audio and climate systems. Instruments have black markings, white faces. Speedometer, fuel gauge suffer sunlight reflections. Rich upholstery, but cabin's only relief from common matte plastic and textured vinyl are some metal trim pieces."

Cargo Room
"A few soft bags fit in convertible's trunk. Trunklid very heavy, and must be opened for clearance to raise or lower convertible top. Cabin limited to small center console, dashboard glovebox."