What engines do Dodge Vipers have?
The Dodge Viper sticks with large, naturally aspirated V10 engines across its generations, evolving from an 8.0-liter powerplant in the early cars to 8.3- and 8.4-liter units in later models, with output rising from roughly 400–450 hp to about 645 hp in the final variants.
Engine generations and their V10 roots
Below is a concise catalog of how the Viper’s engines changed over time, highlighting displacement and approximate power outputs by generation.
- Gen I (1992–1995): 8.0 L V10 (488 cu in), roughly 400–450 hp with torque around 465 lb-ft.
- Gen II (1996–2002): 8.0 L V10, approximately 450–460 hp and about 490 lb-ft of torque.
- Gen III (2003–2006): 8.3 L V10 (509 cu in), about 500–525 hp and around 525 lb-ft of torque.
- Gen IV (2008–2010): 8.4 L V10 (512 cu in), around 600 hp and roughly 560 lb-ft of torque.
- Gen V (2013–2017): 8.4 L V10, roughly 640–645 hp and about 600 lb-ft of torque.
Across these generations, the Viper engines shifted from the initial 8.0-liter configuration to larger 8.3–8.4-liter displacements, culminating in a high-output 8.4-liter V10 in the final models while remaining naturally aspirated throughout the car’s history.
Design notes and context
All Dodge Viper powertrains are naturally aspirated V10s developed in-house by Chrysler, later under the SRT umbrella. The progression shows a clear trend toward more displacement and higher power outputs, paired with refinements in intake, exhaust, and engine management to deliver a distinct, high-revving exhaust note and blistering straight-line performance. The final Generation V cars (and the ACR variants) represent the peak of the Viper’s V10 development, with competitive track-focused tuning while preserving the model’s iconic heritage.
Summary
In short, the Dodge Viper’s engines evolved from an 8.0-liter V10 in the early years to 8.3–8.4-liter V10s in later generations, delivering a progression from roughly 400–450 hp to about 645 hp in the final versions. Throughout its production, the Viper remained a purpose-built, naturally aspirated V10 sports car with a distinctive driving character.
What engine does a Dodge Viper use?
The Viper engine is a high-performance naturally-aspirated pushrod 2 valve-per-cylinder 90° V10 engine designed by Chrysler but with aluminum block castings designed by Lamborghini for use in the Dodge Viper. Despite its large displacement, it is based on the Chrysler LA V8.
Is there a 9.0 L Viper?
Yes, a 9.0L Viper engine exists as a stroker engine built by companies like Prefix Corporation and others, which increases the displacement of the factory V10 engine from its original 8.4L to 9.0L. This is an aftermarket and custom-built performance modification, not a factory-produced model.
This video shows a Dodge Viper with a 9.0L stroker engine: 59sMod StarzYouTube · Oct 3, 2025
- Modification, not a factory model: The 9.0L Viper is a performance upgrade created by aftermarket companies to increase the engine's displacement beyond the factory 8.4L.
- Performance benefits: These engines are built for high horsepower and torque, often achieving around 820 horsepower and 777 lb-ft of torque, though specifics vary depending on the build.
- Engine components: The modification typically involves a new crankshaft with a longer stroke, new connecting rods, pistons, and other internal components to achieve the larger displacement.
- Availability: You can find these engines for sale as complete units or as kits to be installed on existing vehicles.
Why did the Viper use a V10?
The team basically took a Dodge Truck engine block and had it copied into the "if memory serves" Aluminum block version. The Defender Viper was fitted with the V10 for two reasons it provided more top speed and acceleration for stunts and is a nod to the awesome concept V10 Viper.
How much horsepower does a 8.3 L Viper have?
500 hp at 5,600
Engine Type: 8.3L V10. Horsepower: 500 hp at 5,600 rpm. Torque: 525 lb-ft at 4,200 rpm. Displacement: 8,285 cc.
