SRT Viper TA Aims Avenge Loss to ZR1

Late last year, the American auto magazine Motor Trend pitted a brand new SRTSRTUnited States of America, 2010 > present5 models
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Viper GTSSRT Viper GTS Launch EditionUnited States of America, 2013 > 2000 against the sixth-generation Chevrolet Corvette ZR1Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 ZR-1United States of America, 2009 > present3 photos
around Laguna Seca. The two cars are evenly matched technically with just 2hp and 4lb-ft of torque between them, but the Corvette was two seconds faster per lap. The loss was a shock to many Chrysler fans, including SRT head Ralph Gilles. Just a few months later, SRT is launching the 2014 SRT Viper TA (Time Attack), which seems to be aimed to take the title back from the Corvette. 

“The new 2014 SRT Viper TA is being engineering for the dedicated track enthusiast, who still wants to drive to the track and take their hobby to the next level” said Gilles.

The TA will be limited to 33 units with no available options. It gets an upgraded suspension built specifically for track driving, lighter wheels, and the two-mode Bilstein suspension. The suspension gets stiffer springs and dampers and stabilizer bars derived from the GTS-RSRT Viper GTS-RUnited States of America, 2013 > present7 photos
racecar. The car's aluminum X-brace is replaced by a carbon fiber version. All of the modifications bring the curb weight to 3,368lbs, which is 6lbs less than a standard ViperSRT ViperUnited States of America, 2013 > present33 photos
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, 26lbs less than a Viper GTS with the SRT package and 5lbs less than a Corvette ZR1.

The TA also gets new black anodized Brembo brakes with increased thermal capacity and better heat dissipation. 

"Our engineers revised the suspension settings to refocus the Viper specifically for track duty, using a blend of components from the GTS and the SRT models, add in the extensively developed aero package and the new Time Attack package is born," said Gilles.

The cars will only be available in Crusher Orange with TA logos on the fenders and a black hood emblem. It also gets a carbon fiber front splitter and carbon fiber rear spoiler. 

The 8.4-liter V10 is left untouched with 640hp and 600lb-ft of torque. 

The interior gets Sabelt racing seats with racing harnesses. It also has Crusher Orange stitching on the seats, instrument panel, center console, handbrake and steering wheel. 

The Viper TA will debut at the New York Auto Show on March 27. Sales will begin in the third quarter of 2013.