Traditionally the most potent model in Chrysler Group’s range, the Viper was recently upstaged by the cheaper, more powerful SRT Hellcat editions of the Dodge Challenger and Charger. However, a new rumor suggests the Viper could soon be restored to its usual spot at the top of Chrysler’s performance pecking order.
According to enthusiast site Allpar, Chrysler recently took delivery of several prototype supercharged 8.4-liter V10 engines that will undergo testing for use in the Viper.
Output for the blown ten-cylinder could reportedly reach 800 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque – beating the supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V8′s 707 ponies and matching it in terms of torque. Even more power is possible, but would likely require a new transmission in addition to a bevy of costly brake, suspension, cooling system and body revisions.
Should the rumor prove accurate, it could provide a much-needed shot in the arm for the Viper, which has been selling at a fairly glacial pace. Through the first seven months of the year, just 400 examples of the sports car have found new homes.
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