2002 DODGE VIPER GTS/ACR HARDTOP
12,760 Miles – Two Owner
Mechanically Stock with Cosmetic Upgrades
SOLD ON BRING A TRAILER
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The 2nd generation Dodge Viper was introduced in 1996 and transformed from a raw machine to a more usable car than it had been in its first incarnation. Although the second-generation Viper looks the same, it’s a very different car underneath, featuring several improvements.
For the Viper’s second generation, Dodge redesigned the chassis, suspension, and brakes to make the car more manageable without losing its over-the-top performance. Engine power was still provided courtesy of an 8-liter V-10 engine with 450 hp for the new Viper GTS coupe. The roadster received an uprated engine in 1998 and thereafter.
The Viper GTS coupe was an instant hit with performance enthusiasts who weren’t sold on the Viper roadster’s all-weather open top idea. The coupe roof design includes two “bubbles” over the seats to accommodate drivers wearing racing helmets, and that wasn’t just a gimmick, as Viper coupes found immediate success in sports car racing. Both in SCCA national championship racing and in the professional World Challenge series, the Viper was the first car to seriously challenge the Chevrolet Corvette for dominance.
Chrysler released an “American Club Racing” version of the Viper in 1999, specifically designed for use in SCCA racing. The ACR included an alternate air intake that bumped hp to 460. More than 50 pounds of weight was removed – generally by omitting interior trim and the stock fog lights. On the underside, the ACR received a stiffer racing suspension. Most of these cars went straight to SCCA racers and have never seen street use.
Vipers from 1996 to 2002 received dual front airbags, but in keeping with the Viper’s pure sports car creed, the Viper did not include anti-lock brakes until 2001 and has never included traction or stability control. Still, the second-generation Viper accelerated to 60mph in 4 seconds flat, and 0-100 in 8.6 seconds, with a quarter-mile time of 12.2 seconds. With an honest top speed of 185 mph and 1.01g on the skid pad, performance enthusiasts are hard pressed to find a stronger performing sports car.
Among the cars of particular interest to street-mined collectors are the 2001-2002 Vipers with anti-lock brakes. Regardless of the model, the best advice is to sit down, strap in, and hold on tight.
A summary of specifications for the 2002 Viper GTS/ACR is as follows:
- 8.0L V-10 Engine
- 6-spd manual transmission
- 460 @ 5,200 rpm Horsepower
- 490 @ 3,700 rpm Torque
- Rear-wheel Drive type
- 18″ painted aluminum Wheels
- Front air conditioning (considerably more effective than 1st generation cars)
- Alpine AM/FM/CD stereo
- 2 Key-fobs (all doors) Remote keyless entry
- Connolly Leather Bucket Seats
HISTORY
Finished in striking Viper Red with black leather interior, this 2002 Viper GTS/ACR represents the last of the second generation of the Dodge Viper is one of a reported 545 GTS cars produced in 2002. The Viper was optioned with the rare but popular ACR Competition Group Package (low restricted air cleaner, ACR badging, dash plaque, 5-point driving belts, competition suspension and painted aluminum wheels), Comfort Group (air conditioning, premium AM/FM Alpine CD stereo) and Connolly Leather Bucket Seats. Delivered, and remained in California since new, the Viper is currently owned by the second caregiver who acquired the car in 2016 and has added approximately 4,500 miles during his 9 years of ownership. The Viper has a history of passing every required smog check with no findings with the last smog check being completed on May 4, 2023 @ 12,760 miles.
Documentation includes the Warranty Information booklet, Owner’s Manual, Operating Tips, product brochures, two remote key fobs, and other factory manuals. The included file reflects replacement of the left window regulator, front Toyo Proxy tires, oil service, and the car cover information.
CONDITION
This Dodge Viper GTS presents in excellent condition with beautiful Viper Red paint and is accented by wide black stripes down the middle of the car (vinyl, can be removed). Additional improvements by the current owner included an updated front “splitter” (lower front spoiler) and rear diffuser. Both are in excellent condition with no scratches or damage. The door jams, inner surfaces, and the front and rear bumpers are in excellent condition. The black painted wheels are in very good condition with no damage or curbing. Toyo Proxy tires are 335/30/ZR18 (rear) and 275/35/ZR18 (front) with date codes of 2016. Lenses, glass, and lighting are all in excellent condition throughout. All emblems, script lettering, and exterior details are beautifully finished and in excellent condition consistent with the cars low miles.
The beautiful leather trimmed and totally stock interior (with the exception of an upgraded carbon fiber shift knob) is purposeful including a full complement of white face gauges, an AM/FM stereo, and 5-point harnesses included in the ACR package. The interior has been lovingly cared for reflecting the cars low mileage of just under 13K miles and showing no significant or notable marks to the premium luxury seating surfaces, center console, or dashboard. The often seen worn driver’s side bolster is also in beautiful condition with very little wear. The front seats are nicely contoured and feature lumbar support. The dashboard is free from cracks and damage, and all systems, air conditioning, and premium sound system are fully functional. The condition of the carpeting, rear and side surfaces, and other soft interior surfaces are all excellent throughout.
Under the hood, the beautiful and powerful V10 engine is clean and unmodified from new, highlighted by purposeful castings displaying distinct insignias in a remarkably clean engine compartment. The underside is extremely clean, free from damage with no evidence of modifications to the exhaust, suspension, or other components. Extremely minor scratches are noted on the underside of the front air dam that in no way detract from the car’s appearance and can only be seen when the car is on the lift. Included photos support the underside cleanliness, factory stampings, and rear exit dual exhaust that was factory added to 2nd generation Vipers.
As you enter the cockpit of the Viper and assume the driving position, you immediately notice the large bulge in the hood covering the massive engine. The car starts, runs, and drives per original specifications delivering a capable V10 exhaust note with dual exhaust exiting the center rear of the Viper. Driving manners are impressive with an abundance of and excellent handling that command a driver that is familiar of the significant performance offered by the Viper. The combination of the 6-speed manual transmission and torquey V10 engine delivers a powerful punch on command. Gearing is tall allowing for 60 mph in first gear and revs of under 1,500 rpm at highway speeds. The suspension is taught but compliant and the ride comfortable considering the level of performance and power.
With muscular good looks and superlative performance on tap, this Viper GTS offers the best in high performance American sports cars. This example will appeal to enthusiasts seeking a low mileage, remarkably well-maintained, California Viper GTS.
INCLUDED WITH THE CAR
The original factory Owners Manuals are included as are two original keys with remote key fobs, battery tender, front license plate bracket and car cover. Documentation includes copies of service invoices from the current owner, Dodge Viper service, body, chassis, powertrain & parts manuals as well as the “Dodge Viper Operating Tips” VHS video tape.