Description
Chrysler Viper RT/10 | 1996
Highlights:
- Rare early European-delivered Chrysler-badged Viper RT/10
- 8.0-litre V10 engine with Lamborghini input in design and construction
- Only 17,000 km indicated since new
- Original grey leather interior, with soft side windows and cockpit cover included
- Mostly original paint with only minor cosmetic flaws
The seller offers for sale a 1996 Chrysler Viper RT/10, an iconic American sports cars of the 1990s. While known as the Dodge Viper in the United States, this example was sold new in Spain, where Dodge was not officially represented, and therefore carries the Chrysler badge. This gives it an additional element of exclusivity, as very few were delivered in this configuration.
Powered by a massive 7,990 cc V10 petrol engine producing around 389 hp, the Viper was co-developed with engineering input from Lamborghini, particularly in the refinement of its aluminium engine block. Power is delivered through a six-speed manual transmission to the rear wheels, and at just 1,580 kg, the car combines enormous torque with raw, unfiltered performance. At highway speeds, the V10 runs at low revs, providing relaxed cruising ability despite its enormous output.
The car retains its original grey leather interior, which shows limited wear. The side windows are fabric units that can be removed and stowed in the boot, along with a tonneau-style cockpit cover. As this model did not feature a permanent roof, it has only ever been used in fair weather and stored in a garage.
The bodywork is largely original and in presentable condition, with only two small imperfections noted: a patch of clearcoat lifting behind the seats and a mark on the boot lid caused by an object resting on it. The underside is described as very clean, reflecting careful use and long-term storage.
Mechanically, the car is said to be in solid order, with servicing carried out on a time basis rather than mileage, ensuring lubrication and fluids remained fresh despite limited use. The gearbox shifts smoothly, and all lights, indicators, and systems function correctly. It has passed its Spanish road inspection and is ready for registration transfer.
The Viper RT/10 was launched in 1992 as Chrysler’s answer to a pure driver’s car. Inspired by the Shelby Cobra, the Viper embraced minimalism: no airbags, no traction control, no anti-lock brakes—just raw power and lightweight construction. Its side-pipe exhausts, later relocated to the rear for European homologation, became one of its defining traits. In 1996, just 700 units of the RT/10 were produced, making this car particularly rare.
Chrysler’s collaboration with Lamborghini during the engine’s development gave the Viper a unique place in supercar history, blending American muscle with Italian engineering finesse. It stood as a counterpoint to contemporary sports cars from Ferrari, Porsche, and Corvette, offering an experience that was more visceral and aggressive. For enthusiasts, the Viper became a symbol of 1990s performance culture, often associated with motorsport, video games, and media appearances.
Over the years, the Viper has gained recognition as a true collectible, especially early models like the RT/10 that retain the original, uncompromising formula. The fact that this example was sold new in Spain as a Chrysler rather than a Dodge, and still carries its original paint and interior, further enhances its desirability. With low mileage and careful ownership, it represents an opportunity to acquire a rare piece of American performance history.
Imperfections are minimal and limited to two cosmetic issues: the slight lifting of clearcoat behind the seats and a small surface mark on the boot lid. No accident history, corrosion, or structural repairs have been reported. The car has been maintained but sparingly driven, so buyers should expect minor servicing to ensure continued reliability. Other than these small details, the car is described as mechanically and cosmetically well-preserved for its age.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Madrid, España.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Spanish registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
