Expect to see quite a few more vipers up on curbs. The overage Joe was having problems keeping the 500hp version in control. Know of two friends that have done so. Cant believe they dont equip these 500hp+ cars w traction control.
Viper owners don't want traction control. The Vette is around for that stuff. The Viper is an active driving machine. Takes skill and experience to get the most out of the car, and the novice will put it into a ditch or wall. Save the nanny tech for someone else. However..the day is coming where it will be government regulated for all vehicles, unfortunately. The write up below explains the Viper. This was a CNN issue on Collectable cars of the future by Hagerty:
Dodge Viper
An avid, cult-like following can boost a car's appeal in the collector-car market, said McKeel Hagerty of Hagerty Insurance. The Viper is a superb example of the phenomenon.
"The Viper created almost a new category for itself as kind of the anti-Corvette," said Hagerty.
The Chevrolet Corvette has its followers, too, but the Viper prides itself on being a car for the truly dedicated.
The 'Vette pampers and protects you with amenities like cupholders, side impact airbags and electronic stability control.
The Viper, on the other hand, will do you no favors. It will not hold your beverage and it will not protect you if you manage to skid sideways into a tree. You'll experience the Viper's exhaust heat and engine noise first hand.
With its enormous tires and extremely sensitive steering, the Viper responds to every wrinkle in the road, so you'd better keep both hands on the wheel.
But the Viper's extreme, pit-bull image could make it highly collectible in the future. The upcoming 2008 Viper is shown here.