Driving the Viper in and out of city traffic was far easier than I had expected. En route to some open highway and

Although I have driven numerous performance cars in my life, I was stunned by the explosive power under the Viper's long, double gilled hood. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

deserted roadways, we wended our way through the congestion that routinely clogs my city's core in rush hour. Its civility really showed through in chugging along, bumper-to-bumper with the 9-5'ers. But once clear of the city's choking gridlock, the opportunity presented itself to let the Viper safely stretch its 2,000 legs.

Although I have driven numerous performance cars in my life, I was stunned by the explosive power under the Viper's long, double gilled hood. The source of that energy utilizes 10 cylinders and a whopping 8.3 litres (505 cu in) of combustible space. Add premium fuel into the high-compression chambers and prepare to feel the kick of 525 pound-feet of brute torque in a vehicle that at 1,536 kilos (3,380 lbs) weighs less than a Nissan 350Z roadster - get the picture, or should I say

With gearing on the tall side, highway speeds can easily be surpassed without shifting to 3rd. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

punch? With its guttural side-outlet exhaust pipes roaring at full volume, DaimlerChrysler claims a 0-to-100 km/h time of less than four seconds, and I'm a believer.

The massive V10 power is bolted securely to a six-speed manual box capped-off by a chunky, substantial-feeling ball-shaped grip falling perfectly beneath the driver's right hand. Tossing the lever from gear to gear requires a purposeful tug, the benefit of which is a clean, crisp shift. With gearing on the tall side, highway speeds can easily be surpassed without shifting to 3rd. And that translates into passing power that is so awesome, it's almost shocking.