What year was the Dodge Viper?
The Dodge Viper was first introduced in 1992, and its production continued in several generations until it was discontinued in 2017.
The question centers on the model’s debut year and the span of its production. The Viper began life as a high-performance concept in the late 1980s, entered production in the early 1990s, and lived through five generations before Dodge ended the line in 2017. Below is a concise timeline and additional context to understand its history.
Timeline of generations and production windows
The following timeline outlines the Viper’s five generations and their respective production years.
- Gen I — RT/10: 1992–1995
- Gen II — GTS/RT/10: 1996–2002
- Gen III — SRT-10: 2003–2007
- Gen IV — ACR/SRT-10: 2008–2010
- Gen V — Viper (new generation): 2013–2017
The Viper’s production was briefly paused after 2010, then revived in 2013 with the fifth generation before finally ending in 2017. This period reflects the car’s evolution from a raw, track-focused two-seater to a modern, high-performance supercar.
Origins, design and development
The Viper’s development began in the late 1980s as Chrysler sought a bold, American alternative to European sports cars. A long-time collaboration with design and engineering minds culminated in a production version revealed in the early 1990s. The name “Viper” (a venomous snake) underscored the car’s intent: extreme power, aggressive styling, and uncompromising performance. The lineup was defined by a large, naturally aspirated V10 engine and a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive layout that delivered a visceral driving experience.
Design philosophy and performance hallmarks
Across its generations, the Viper emphasized straight-line speed and track capability. Each generation refined power, aerodynamics, and handling characteristics, while preserving the model’s characteristic, no-nonsense approach to performance. The early years favored simplicity and raw torque, while later iterations added electronic aids and refinement without sacrificing the car’s signature aggression.
Legacy and impact
Since its debut, the Dodge Viper has been celebrated for its uncompromising performance and distinctive silhouette. It helped shape American postwar performance mythos by offering a purpose-built, high-output V10 rival to European supercars, while also spawning a dedicated enthusiast community and a series of racing appearances that reinforced its reputation as a working-class hero among high-power machines.
Enduring footprint in automotive culture
Even after production ended in 2017, the Viper remains a touchstone for enthusiasts and collectors. Its bold design, storied performance, and a lineage spanning five generations continue to influence how American performance cars are perceived and discussed.
Summary
The Dodge Viper made its formal debut in 1992 and enjoyed a production run that stretched to 2017, spanning five generations with a brief hiatus in the middle. From its concept roots in the late 1980s to its final iterations, the Viper left a lasting mark as an unapologetic American performance icon.
What year was the last Dodge Viper?
The last Dodge Viper was produced in 2017. The final model year marked the end of production after the car could no longer meet new safety standards that took effect in September of that year.
- Final Production Year: 2017 was the 25th and final year of Dodge Viper production.
- Reason for Discontinuation: The primary reason for the end of production was that the Viper could not be updated to comply with new safety regulations, specifically those requiring side curtain airbags.
- Other factors: While safety regulations were the main driver, low sales numbers were also a contributing factor to the decision.
How much did a 1999 Dodge Viper cost new?
List prices started at $52,000, but escalated quickly. It was awesome then — a two-seat roadster with an 8-liter V-10 engine that produced 400 horsepower. There were almost no concessions to everyday convenience.
How much is a 1993 Dodge Viper worth today?
The price for a 1993 Dodge Viper varies significantly, but generally ranges from approximately $33,000 to over $80,000 depending on condition, mileage, and history. The original MSRP was around $50,700$ 50 comma 700$50,700, while current used market prices average around $52,000$ 52 comma 000$52,000, with excellent examples commanding prices of $55,000$ 55 comma 000$55,000 and up, and lower-priced ones having significant issues or high mileage.
Factors influencing price
- Condition: A well-maintained, low-mileage car will be much more valuable.
- Mileage: Cars with extremely low mileage, often below 10,000 miles, can fetch premium prices, while higher-mileage examples will be less expensive.
- History: The vehicle's history, including any accidents or title problems, can drastically lower its value.
- Market fluctuation: Prices are subject to change based on recent auction sales and current market demand.
Price ranges
- Average used price: Around $52,196$ 52 comma 196$52,196, according to Autotrader
- Typical price for a good condition car: Approximately $36,400$ 36 comma 400$36,400, according to Hagerty
- Highest auction price: Over $80,000$ 80 comma 000$80,000, for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples
- Lowest auction price: As low as $33,000$ 33 comma 000$33,000 for cars with maintenance needs, accident history, or title issues
Is Dodge making a 2025 Viper?
No, the Dodge Viper is not coming back in 2025 because it was officially discontinued after the 2017 model year and there are no official plans for its return for 2025. While there are persistent rumors and speculation online about a potential comeback, these are not confirmed by the company and are considered unlikely to happen soon.
You can watch this video to learn about rumors of a possible Dodge Viper comeback: 55sDPCcarsYouTube · Jul 5, 2025
- Discontinued model: The Dodge Viper ceased production at the end of the 2017 model year.
- Rumors vs. reality: Despite online speculation and fan desire, there are no official announcements or evidence that a new Viper will be produced in 2025.
- Financial and engineering challenges: Industry experts suggest that bringing back the Viper would be a significant challenge due to the costs of developing a new platform, especially given the company's focus on other models and trends like electrification.
This video explains why Dodge may not be bringing back the Viper: 59sRacerXYouTube · Aug 17, 2025
