Manufacturer DaimlerChrysler Class sports car Layout FR layout | Production 1997 Body style roadster | |
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Also called Dodge Concept CarDodge Concept Vehicle | ||
The Dodge Copperhead, also known as the Dodge Concept Car and Dodge Concept Vehicle, was a concept car created by Dodge as a slimmed-down version of the Dodge Viper for buyers who couldn't afford the Viper's $75,000 cost.
Contents
Overview
The Dodge Copperhead was unveiled at the 1997 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Many reviewers were impressed with its aerodynamic, yet rugged styling with its Copper Fire Orange color and the fact that its sale price would be about $30,000 USD ($45,000 less than the Viper). The Copperhead, unlike the Viper, was made more for handling and driving pleasure, while the Viper was made more for raw power. The Copperhead had excellent handling due to its low, wide stance. Dodge engineered the Copperhead to make the driver feel the road and the pavement, and this was done by stretching the wheels to the end of the frame, adding five inches of ground clearance and a stiff suspension, making this car marketed more towards enthusiasts. The Dodge concept was due to be released in 2000.
Name controversy
After the unveiling of the Copperhead, Dodge received a complaint regarding ownership of the rights to the "Copperhead" name. A customized 1950 Ford Coupe owned by Billy Gibbons of the American rock band ZZ Top, had already been registered with the Copperhead name. As a result, DaimlerChrysler unofficially renamed the car, with it being referred to as the "Concept Vehicle" instead of "Copperhead" in press kits, scale toys, and other merchandise. This made press kits or items with the Copperhead name collectibles. The Dodge Copperhead makes an appearance in Gran Turismo and Gran Turismo 2 and is known as the "Concept Car".