What Dodge model is named after a snake?
The Dodge Viper is the model named after a snake.
The name comes from the venomous viper, signaling Dodge’s aim to pair extreme performance with an unmistakable, aggressive identity. The Viper line ran from the early 1990s until 2017 and remains a defining chapter in Dodge’s performance history.
Origins of the name and branding
The Viper name and its branding were chosen to convey speed, danger, and precision, drawing on the image of a venomous snake. The car’s exterior styling and marketing frequently leveraged snake imagery to reinforce its image as a raw, high-performance American sports machine.
Key branding elements associated with the Viper over the years:
- Snake-inspired naming that evokes aggression and quick, decisive action.
- Distinctive serpent imagery and badges used on special editions and marketing materials.
- Performance-focused design cues that reinforced the metaphor of a swift, lethal strike.
The branding helped establish the Viper as a symbol of Dodge’s performance era and cultivated a devoted enthusiast and collector community.
Milestones in Dodge Viper production
Below are major milestones in the life of the Dodge Viper, outlining its evolution and production arc.
- 1992: The RT/10, Dodge’s first Viper, debuts as a hand-built roadster and launches the Viper line.
- 1996: The Viper GTS coupe joins the lineup, offering a closed-roof variant with a more refined interior.
- 2003: A major redesign introduces the SRT-10 generation (the third generation) with updated chassis and powertrain.
- 2008: The Viper SRT10 ACR appears, a track-focused edition aimed at performance enthusiasts and record attempts.
- 2013: The fifth-generation Viper (VX) debuts with modern technology and design updates, continuing until production ends in 2017.
- 2017: Dodge ends Viper production, marking the close of a storied era for the model.
The timeline highlights how the Viper evolved from a raw, open-road racer into a more refined, track-capable machine, before its production concluded.
Current status and legacy
As of now, Dodge does not produce a Viper, and there has been no official revival announced. The Viper remains a cult favorite among enthusiasts for its distinctive V10 soundtrack, uncompromising handling, and bold branding. While there have been media discussions about a potential comeback, no concrete plans have been publicized.
Summary
The Dodge Viper is the snake-named Dodge model that defined a generation of American performance cars. From its 1990s origins to its 2017 farewell, the Viper left a lasting impression on enthusiasts and on Dodge’s performance heritage, embodying bold styling, raw power, and a fearless driving experience.
What is the Dodge Viper named after?
Tom Gale, who led the design team, and Chris Theodore, who led powertrain, both agree that when the as-yet-unnamed Dodge roadster was in its infancy in the late '80s, the team knew it wanted a snake-inspired name to honor the Shelby Cobra that so clearly served as its inspiration.
How much does a Dodge Viper cost?
A used Dodge Viper can range in price significantly, from approximately $35,000 for older models to over $250,000 for the most sought-after, low-mileage or ACR (American Club Racer) versions of later years. The original MSRP for the final generation (2013-2017) started around $90,000 and went up to nearly $120,000, depending on the trim level.
Price breakdown by factors
- Age: Older Vipers, particularly from the 1990s and early 2000s, are generally less expensive, though some rare models can still be costly.
- Year and Trim: For later models, the original MSRP provides a baseline, but the price on the used market depends on demand and specific trims. The ACR models command higher prices, often reaching well over $250,000.
- Condition and Mileage: Lower mileage and pristine condition, especially for a final-generation Viper, significantly increases the price. Conversely, higher mileage and older models will be more affordable.
- Collectibility: Certain special editions, like the ACR or GTS-R Commemorative Edition, are more collectible and can be priced higher due to their rarity.
Examples of used prices
- Older models: A 1994 Dodge Viper RT/10 was listed for around $49,900, while a 2001 SRT-10 Roadster was priced at $68,000.
- Later models: A 2015 Dodge Viper SRT Coupe could be found for around $135,000, while a 2017 Dodge Viper ACR was listed for about $285,000.
- Limited editions: A 2017 Dodge Viper GTC ACR Extreme with very low mileage sold for $256,000.
What Dodge has a snake logo?
DODGE VIPER. An unmistakable American icon, the Viper and Viper SRT® ruled the streets from 1991 to 2017. Now out of production, their legacy of power and performance lives on.
What Dodge car is named after a snake?
The type of Dodge that is also a snake is the Dodge Viper. The car was nicknamed "America's Wild Snake" due to its powerful engine and dangerous, unfiltered performance.
- The name "Viper" directly refers to the snake, and the car's performance and aggressive styling have earned it the "snake" nickname.
- Early models were known for their lack of driver aids, like airbags and anti-lock brakes, to keep the focus on raw power.
- The car was originally conceived as a modern equivalent to the legendary Shelby Cobra.
- The Dodge Viper was built from 1991 to 2017.
