A replica of the original Dodge Viper that is based on a Corvette appeared for sale in Germany, with an asking price of €17,500 ($19,344). The used sportscar features the stock underpinnings of a 1995 Chevrolet Corvette C4, but the bodywork is completely redesigned to look like a Viper.
The build represents a decent effort overall and might fool some casual onlookers, but there are plenty of details that give away it’s not a genuine Viper. The most important are the Corvette greenhouse and proportions, with the replica missing out on the long bonnet of the original as indicated by the smaller distance between the front wheels and the doors.
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The replica car’s headlights and taillights are not the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, but have circular units housed in custom black casings. The rear end is less sleek and attractive than the original Viper, with an unusual cutout for the rear glass and an integrated spoiler that is unflattering. Additionally, the car’s appearance would benefit from fewer vents on the front fenders and narrower panel gaps on the doors.
The cabin remains in stock condition, so don’t expect the large number of gauges found on the Viper. Still, this particular interior was used in the Corvettes produced between 1994 and 1996, looking a lot more modern than the original C4 that was introduced back in 1984. Equipment includes leather upholstery, air-conditioning, power steering, power windows, adjustable seats and steering wheel, plus central locking.
According to the listing, the donor car that has a relatively low odometer reading of 95,000 miles (152,888 km) for its age is a very late example of the C4 produced in 1995. This means that under the hood lies a naturally aspirated 5.7-liter LT1 V8 producing 300 hp (224 kW / 305 PS) and 340 lb-ft (461 Nm) of torque. Despite the exterior modifications, the engine remains in stock condition, sending power to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic gearbox. For comparison, the original first-gen Dodge Viper was fitted with a massive 8.0-liter V10 producing 400 hp (298 kW / 405 PS) and 465 lb-ft (630 Nm) of torque, mated to a six-speed manual.
Notably, this is not the first time we’ve seen a “Viperette” as there are at least two more in existence, although those are based on the older Corvette C3 and feature a completely different bodykit that proudly showcases the marriage of the two American icons. Is this Viper knockoff worth the hiss-terically high price tag or a snake in the grass?
