1996 Dodge Viper RT/10

415 Horsepower. 488 lb-ft of Torque. One Legendary V10. For Dodge Viper enthusiasts, the 1996 RT/10 occupies a particularly interesting place in Viper history. Often referred to by the Viper faithful as the “Gen 1.5,” this transitional-year roadster blends the raw character of the original Viper with meaningful chassis and exhaust revisions that helped usher in the second generation. Finished in striking Stone White with Blue Pearl racing stripes over a black leather interior, this clean example has just 63,300 miles and comes equipped with both a removable hardtop and a soft top.

Under that extended hood sits the legendary 8.0-liter (488-cubic-inch) aluminum V10, delivering a factory-rated 415 horsepower at 4,600 rpm and a monumental 488 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. Power reaches the rear wheels through a proper six-speed manual transmission, putting you in direct command of one of the most characterful American performance cars of its era. This is torque-rich, naturally aspirated performance from a time when the engine did the talking and the driver had to be part of the conversation.

Why the “Gen 1.5” Matters

Although 1996 officially ushered in the second-generation Viper platform, the RT/10 retained key elements of the original-generation powertrain, earning its enthusiast-community nickname. The revised exhaust system routed the exhaust to the rear through centrally positioned outlets rather than the original side-exit arrangement, helping the roadster achieve its 415-horsepower rating. Revised suspension components also helped reduce weight, while the availability of a removable hardtop added welcome versatility. These changes make the 1996 RT/10 a fascinating bridge between the original Viper's bare-knuckle personality and the evolution that followed.

For collectors and longtime Viper fans, that transitional identity is part of the appeal. The RT/10 preserves the original roadster's elemental formula while incorporating select second-generation improvements, all without losing the mechanical character that made the early cars icons.

Classic Viper Attitude, Open-Air Freedom

The Stone White exterior gives this Viper a crisp, purposeful appearance, complemented by black leather bucket seats featuring deep bolstering on the bottom and back that keep the cockpit focused on the driving experience. The elongated front end, broad shoulders, low profile, and unmistakable Viper proportions need no explanation to anyone who remembers when Dodge challenged the world's established sports-car elite with American displacement and attitude.

With both the removable hardtop and soft top included, you can enjoy the car in open-roadster form or add protection when the weather calls for it. Either way, the six-speed gearbox, enormous V10 torque, and direct connection to the road remain the main attractions.

Showing just 63,300 miles, this clean 1996 RT/10 offers an opportunity to own a distinctive chapter in Viper history. It isn't simply an early second-generation car. It's the enthusiast-recognized Gen 1.5, a transitional machine that bridges two eras of one of America's most uncompromising performance-car lineages.

For the buyer who appreciates the details that separate one Viper generation from another, this Stone White roadster deserves a closer look. With its legendary 488-cubic-inch V10, six-speed manual, black leather cabin, and both tops included, it's ready to deliver the visceral driving experience that made the Viper a legend.

Gen 1 soul. Gen 2 evolution. 415 horsepower of pure Viper attitude.