One of the most quintessentially American vehicles ever produced was the original Dodge Viper. At its essence, it embodied an unforgiving, immensely powerful convertible propelled by an 8.0-liter V10 generating 400 horsepower. While many of these engines still power original Vipers today, there is one that never found its way into a classic sports car. Currently up for sale on Bring-A-Trailer, this particular engine comes with a truly remarkable tale.
In 1996, the engine was dispatched to a Dodge dealership, yet there was no Viper awaiting its delivery. Allegedly, an employee at the dealership was trying to order a tube of red touch-up paint for a customer’s vehicle. Due to a purported error in the part number, no paint was ordered; instead, a fully-equipped Viper engine was unintentionally requested and subsequently delivered. Despite changing hands through multiple owners, this engine has never been installed in a vehicle over all these years.
The current owner acquired the engine in 2021 and has opted to put it up for sale. Despite never being fired up, the engine still operates smoothly. There are no apparent leaks based on the images provided. Having been housed indoors in California its entire life, there is less concern about the aging of certain seals and gaskets.
Since its delivery to the dealership in the 1990s, the engine has been essentially ready for installation in a vehicle. Apart from a complete front dress, intake manifold, and exhaust manifolds, it also comes with a clutch, pressure plate, and pre-installed ignition system. It has been affixed to a custom stand for many years, with the original plastic crate it was shipped in also included in the sale.
For those seeking an original, untouched Viper engine, this could be one of the very few chances to acquire one. Originally costing around $10,000 in 1996, bids for this V10 engine have currently reached $5,000, with seven days remaining.
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