This is the moment Viper fans from all over the world have been waiting for, the 2013 SRT Viper which has now made it’s official debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show.

The introduction of this latest Viper also marks the beginning of a new brand, Street and Racing Technology (SRT), which evolves from it’s performance and tuning roots into a standalone brand complete with its own flagship.

As for this new Viper, the basic recipe is pretty much the same, although it’s been improved in almost every possible way.

The Viper, now in it’s fifth generation, returns with more power and performance, superior engineering and new technologies with improved driver comforts.

There will be three models introduced, two for road use and one aimed for racing. The road cars are labelled as Viper and Viper GTS, while racing fans will soon be in awe at the awesome Viper GTS-R. By offering both a basic and enhanced Viper GTS for road use, SRT can cater for both traditional and new customers who want the same performance in a similar package with improved technology and premium driver comforts.

Power to all three models will be delivered by a front mid-engine 8.4-litre V10 tuned an estimated 640bhp with 600 lb-ft of torque, the highest torque figure of any naturally aspirated car engine in the world.

It’s based on the previous model V10 but improvements for 2013 include a new high flow intake manifold, strengthened forged pistons, sodium filled exhaust valves, new catalysts to reduce back pressure and an all aluminium flywheel that reduces reciprocating losses. With the engine modifications an impressive 25 lb’s has been shaved off it’s total weight.

The Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission has been vastly improved with a shorter throw shifter, tighter gear ratios and a final drive ratio that has been shortened. This means the 2013 Viper models will be more engaging to drive, and a top speed in 6th gear is now achievable at 6,200rpm.

The chassis now has a stiffer structure that provides 50% more torsional rigidity, and a major update which includes an aluminium “X” brace under the hood that secures the suspension pickup points which contribute to improved torsional rigidity and stiffness.

Structurally, many areas of the chassis have been reworked to utilise new materials, reduced thickness and a reshape of components provides far more structural rigidity than other metals. The result is an overall weight saving of an astonishing 100 lbs which means this is the lightest Viper yet.

At the rear, the suspension setup has been re-engineered with the toe link moved forward of the axle to provide better dynamic stability. A two-mode suspension system is also standard on the GTS models which features Bilstein DampTronic Select shock absorbers for both street and track driving.

The SRT Viper models will ride on Pirelli P Zero tyres as standard. An optional extra on the SRT Track Package features Pirelli P Zero Costa (soft-tuned) racing type compound tyres that improve handling and precision on the road and track. Additionally, all Vipers will now come with a launch control switch mounted on the streering wheel which allows a more aggressive acceleration from standing starts.

Four-piston Brembo brakes with fixed aluminium calipers come as standard, and vented rotors are used at all four corners. An optional STR Track Package will feature lightweight slotted two-piece rotors from StopTech.

The 2013 Viper also includes new interior and exterior designs which incorporate premium materials and new exterior surfaces with aerodynamically functional details that are stunningly integrated into the high-tech carbon fiber and aluminum skin.

Inside, all surfaces are fully leather skinned, and standard accent colors are applied to the seats, doors, center console and stitching. High performance racing seats from Sabelt come as standard which feature a lightweight Kevlar/fiberglass shell created by resin transfer moulding technology for mass reduction and long-term durability.

Some of the other upgrades, either standard or available, include a 7-inch customizable cluster display, Uconnect connectivity and infotainment system and a Harman Kardon sound system with up to 18 speakers.

This stunning supercar will be hand built at the Connor Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit later this year. They will be sold through selected specialist Dodge dealers, but unless you’re a loyal and dedicated long-term member of the Viper Club of America, you will not be eligible for the first batch of cars being produced.

2013 SRT Viper Pictures

You could be in for a long wait before you get your hands on this new generation Viper. SRT is expecting a first year demand which exceeds the level of production Viper are capable of, so a long waiting list is likely.