2006 Dodge Viper SRT 10

The Dodge Viper SRT10 can claim the mantle of traditional American automotive values: a big, beefy, powerful engine in a sleek body and a minimum of luxury. That said, today's Viper's are a little less Spartan than their predecessors.

2006 sees the addition of a Coupe to the super powered Dodge Viper lineup, joining the two-passenger convertible. The hardtop model features a “double bubble” roof, specially designed windshield and wraparound taillights. It's a mean-looking model, and can speed up to 60 in under 4 seconds, claims Dodge. At that rate, the white racing stripes that offset the Viper blue would begin to blur. 2006 models offer two new wheel options.

The Viper's massive 8.3-liter V-10 generates an ungodly 510 hp and 535 pounds-feet of torque. A six-speed-manual transmission – the only option Dodge offers for this car - directs that force to 19-inch rear tires (18-inch tires are in front). The sleek racing chassis rides on a fully independent suspension and brakes the size of New Jersey .

From the outside, the Dodge Viper fulfills it implicit promise: it's a take-no-prisoners honest-to-goodness road machine. The styling depends heavily on the Viper GST/R concept car shown first at the 2000 Detroit auto show; the swoopy fenders, side scalloping, and sunken hood lines add up to a more modern appearance than the older versions. Further, Dodge has improved the car's aerodynamics by adding a belly pan.

The Viper SRT10 leans out to a 175.6 inches length, stands 47.6 inches tall, riding a 98.8-inch wheelbase.

Inside, the Viper wastes no time declaring its pedigree. Racing-style cockpit controls and a speedometer that tops out at 220 mph alert the driver to what's in store. All that power begins with the push of a button. It's no surprise that Dodge likes to claim that the Viper is the “"the automotive equivalent of a jet fighter." It's almost as fast as one.

As might be expected, safety features are not the Viper's strong suit. Lacking are side-airbags, or any traction or stability control systems. On the plus side, enormous four-wheel antilock disc brakes will stop the car right quick, and a passenger-side airbag cutoff switch allows small children to ride safely in the passenger seat.

Overall, the Dodge Viper is the closest thing most of us will come to Formula One racing. The enormous power, cat-quick handling and rock-solid Brembo brakes allow the skilled weekend driver some of the thrills of big-time racing. It's not, however, a car you'd want to drive to the multi-plex.