2016 Dodge Viper ACR is a Track Adder [w/ Video]

Even in “base” form, the Dodge Viper has always been among the most extreme street legal sports cars on the planet. But for much of the model’s history, there’s also been an extra-extreme, ultra-badass version called the Viper ACR (short for American Club Racer). When a concept Viper ACR based on the current generation model appeared at the SEMA Show last November, we figured we wouldn’t have to wait very long for it to become a production model. And lo and behold, we were right.

The 2016 Dodge Viper ACR may not be more powerful than other members of the current Viper family (not that 645 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft of torque from an 8.4L V10 can truthfully be described as weak), but it is a much more focused track car. Engineers removed the standard shock absorbers and replaced them with racing-grade Bilstein coilovers that offer multiple levels of adjustability for things like bump and rebound stiffness, and selected springs that are more than twice as firm as the already stiff ones fitted on the Viper TA. Brakes are monumental carbon-ceramic units fronted by 19” alloy wheels wearing Kumho Ecsta V720 tires designed and manufactured specifically for this application.

But don’t assume that the Viper ACR relies solely on mechanical grip for performance improvements. Using lessons learned from the GT3/GT Daytona and GTE/GT Le Mans racing versions of the Viper, Dodge engineers also gave the ACR a fully functional carbon fiber aero kit consisting of a front splitter, rear diffuser, front dive planes, a new hood with additional venting over the front wheels and a massive adjustable rear wing. How functional is it? Dodge claims it produces almost 2,000 lbs. of downforce at 177 mph. Yep, that’s a lot…

Pricing and performance figures haven’t been released yet, but Dodge has said production will begin in the third quarter of this year. Additionally, you’ll be able to order an ACR through the Viper’s “1 of 1” program that serves up almost limitless color and trim combination possibilities. All the better for other track day participants to see you hauling ass up to their rear bumper…

Source: Dodge