Straight-line acceleration is but one performance dimension of a true supercar; cornering and braking are the others.

The Viper grips the road like an over-caffeinated feline on a shag carpet. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

The Viper grips the road like an over-caffeinated feline on a shag carpet. Although I have yet to track test it, based on my road test I am of the view that little else other than a pure racecar - and that may be questionable - handles as phenomenally as a Viper. Drivers must remember though, there is no vehicle stability program or traction control system in it to replace driver incompetence.

Despite its flat cornering ability and much lauded handling thresholds, the boys at Dodge, or more particularly SRT, have managed to engineer-in a remarkably decent ride, again exceeding my expectations. Although our drive included some hard braking as we ascended and descended a curvy mountain road leading to a closed ski resort, I don't think the Viper's antilock four-wheel disc brakes got any warmer

The Viper is an incredible ride, full of well-mannered fury, fight and testosterone. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

than room temperature, remaining strong and fade-free throughout.

After a bite at a seaside village set in a bay at the base of a steep mountain, it was time to switch on the headlights and point the Viper toward home where a 10 year-old boy was anxiously awaiting a ride in his all-time favourite sled. With the roof down and the chill of the night air keeping us company, we could soon see the twinkling lights of the city and the bridge that would take us there.

The Viper is an incredible ride, full of well-mannered fury, fight and testosterone, packaged in a dramatic, sharply-cut body. Yes, the stuff of dreams.