| Extreme Track Edition | LA Auto Show | Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR |

Dodge has released details of a lighter and more powerful Viper SRT10. Called the SRT10 ACR (American Club Racer), the two-tone, long and imposing bonnet hides a massive aluminium 8.4-litre V10 powerhouse that turns out an equally large 600bhp at 6,100rpm and 560lb.ft of torque through its six-speed manual transmission. Although no exact details have been released, expect a 0-60mph time of around 3.5 seconds.

With an adjustable rear wing and a 'fanged' front splitter made of carbon fibre, the ACR really sets its focus on the track enthusiast by offering a special Hard Core package that does away with the radio, boot carpet and tyre inflator. Already 18kg lighter than the standard SRT10, the pack takes a further 18kg off the kerb weight - down to 1,533kg. A 'track extension' kit is offered as standard that adds nearly a third more downforce up front by modifying the splitter's centre rub strip.

Further evidence of weight loss is found at each corner: Sidewinder alloy wheels were chosen for their lightness as were the grippy Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Tyres. A special Brembo-Stop Tech braking set-up ensures superb stopping power and cooling, but crucially, in a lightweight construction. The specialist combination will apparently help the Viper go from 60mph to standstill in less than 100 feet.

Emphasising the Viper's racing credentials, Dodge has teamed up with KW Suspensions who sourced adjustable coil-overs, whilst Dodge additionally fitted two-way adjustable shocks and a stabiliser bar to increase frontal rigidity and improve cornering prowess. Outright corner-exit traction is looked after by a GKN ViscoLok LSD.

Quite a promising prospect then, you're thinking, but unfortunately the UK won't officially receive the SRT10 ACR when it goes on sale mid-2008. At $100,000 - or around £80,000 - for those willing to get one imported, the latest and craziest Viper is an extreme power-for-pound bargain that could seriously put more expensive yet less powerful rivals in the shade.