Dodge Viper RT10
The 1996 Dodge Viper RT/10 is sometimes known in the Viper community as the "generation 1.5" as it saw the carryover of several generation 1 parts. The roadster featured a single muffler at the rear and two large central tailpipes. This lowered the back pressure, increasing the power to 415 bhp (309 kW; 421 PS) and torque to 488 lb·ft (662 N·m). A removable hardtop and sliding glass window were also new additions to the RT/10. Moreover, some steel suspension components were replaced by aluminum, resulting in a 60 lb (27 kg) weight reduction.
The 1996 model year also saw the introduction of the GTS - a coupe version of the Viper. Dubbed the "double bubble", the roof featured raised sections that allowed the use of helmets and took design cues from the Shelby Daytona. Over 90% of the GTS was new compared to the RT/10, and the model was equipped with the 8.0 litre V-10 engine producing 450 hp (336 kW). It was also the first Viper to be fitted with airbags and with air conditioning, power windows and door locks. The GTS was later chosen as the pace car for the Indianapolis 500.
In 1997 the RT/10 received the 450HP engine and airbags that had been fitted to the GTS. The 1998 Vipers were then equipped with second-generation airbags, revised exhaust manifolds (saving 24 lbs) and a revised camshaft.
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