by Michael Chen
posted on July 28, 2022
An exotic from another era
Here’s a supercar you don’t see every day: a 1995 Dodge Viper. It’s one of the rarest vehicles around, hailing from a completely different period of motoring, one that championed performance and style over creature comforts that we now take for granted. And while the exterior may be distinctly American, you’ll find some European engineering underneath its enormous hood. Let’s take a closer look at our July car of the month, Roland’s Dodge Viper.
1995 Dodge Viper RT/10
| ENGINE | HORSEPOWER | 0 to 60 MPH | TOP SPEED | MILEAGE | DAILY PRICE* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8L V10 | 400 hp | 4.3 sec | 168mph | 16 mpg | $295 |
| ENGINE | HP | 0 to 60 MPH | TOP SPEED | MPG | DAILY PRICE* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8L V10 | 400 hp | 4.3 sec | 168 mph | 16 mpg | $295 |
The Dodge Viper was conceived in the late 1980s, with the goal of creating a modern interpretation of the Shelby Cobra. In other words, it was to redefine performance for a new automotive era. This iconic supercar became an instant classic the moment it debuted as a pace car in the Indy 500, and naturally turned many heads on the showroom floor. Production began with the 1992 model year, and continued through five generations until 2017.
Roland’s 1995 Viper is engineered from the factory with no frivolities. As a result, there are no modern safety features to speak of. To be specific: no ABS, no traction control, and no driver or passenger airbag. In fact, it doesn’t even have windows. But what it does have is a monstrous 400-horsepower 8.0L V10 engine that’s sure to delight its driver. That motor was designed in part by Lamborghini, during a time when the automaker was owned by Chrysler.
It’s true that 400 horsepower isn’t earth-shattering by today’s standards, but this Viper is plenty exciting in its own right. Its zero-to-60 time clocks in at a brisk 4.3 seconds, which is slower than many new EVs but faster than the Porsche 911 Turbo of its time. And it’s not just about speed in a straight line, either. You can also expect sharp handling from this rear-wheel drive roadster.
This first-generation model hails from a simpler time, when more vehicles could be designed entirely around the thrill of the driving experience. Enthusiasts will appreciate the Borg-Warner T65 six-speed manual gearbox, which was the only transmission option available throughout the Viper’s 25 years of production.
Whether you’re behind the wheel or admiring it from afar, this Dodge Viper has plenty of distinct details that anyone can appreciate. The three-spoke wheels are especially eye-catching, and a reminder of simpler times. There’s also the exclusive Viper badging, which you’ll find on the front bumper, trunk and steering wheel. And if you’re wondering where the exhaust pipes went, they’re located on each side underneath the driver and passenger doors. As the saying goes, please watch your step.
Before you can step inside this Viper, you’ll have to contend with its lack of exterior door handles. That’s not a typo. You’ll need to unlatch the doors from inside, which is easy enough given the lack of windows. During the rare occasion of Southern California rain, this vehicle includes a removable soft top and plastic windows that can be attached relatively quickly. If you must park outside, a cover is provided to protect the interior from dust, sand and rain.
As you can plainly see, this Viper has room for just a driver and one lucky passenger. There’s not a lot of storage space in the interior, but there is a pair of speakers situated between both seats. If you decide to take this car on a road trip, you’ll probably need to pack light. The compact trunk has room for a carry-on sized luggage and a medium-sized bag. But with a full load, you won’t have enough space for both the spare tire, soft top and side windows.
You may also notice that Roland’s Viper looks like a time capsule. This vehicle is entirely original with no modifications, aside from the stereo head unit. That makes it even harder to overstate how special this car is. It’s the purest expression of a legendary nameplate, one that needs to be experienced first-hand to appreciate. If you find yourself in Los Angeles and live to drive, this is one car to keep on your radar.
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Michael Chen
Michael has spent most of his career writing about cars. His passions all start with the letter S. That includes his Honda S2000, sustainability, and sushi.
