Auto Library Friends Say Dodge Viper is 2003's 'Collectible Car of the Future'

DETROIT, Dec. 5, 2003 -- Of America's new cars and trucks of 2003, the Dodge Viper SRT-10 will become the most desired by future car collectors, according to the Friends of the National Automotive History Collection.

Members of the organization, which supports the world-famous automotive collection at the Detroit Public Library, vote annually to predict the "Collectible Vehicle of the Future" from the year's all-new American-built vehicles. The Dodge Viper SRT-10 was selected from 21 cars and trucks launched in 2003.

The award will be presented to Chrysler Group executives at the annual Friends of the NAHC holiday reception on December 9. This will be the NAHC's inaugural event for its new and larger quarters in the Skillman Branch Library at 121 Gratiot Avenue in downtown Detroit.

"The Viper reaffirms that today's cars are continuing the classic traditions cherished by automobile enthusiasts around the world," noted Paul Scupholm, chairman of the NAHC Board of Trustees.

Completely redesigned, the 2003 Dodge Viper SRT-10 is the third generation of the brand's icon and the flagship of Dodge's race-inspired, street-legal SRT family of performance vehicles. It is characterized by dramatic styling, extreme performance and Dodge's enduring racing legacy.

Dan Knott, DaimlerChrysler's director of Performance Vehicle Operations said, "When we developed the third generation of the Dodge Viper, we set out to continue the original Viper mission of creating the ultimate American sports car. This recognition from the NAHC proves that we accomplished this mission."

Considered a world-class treasure by automotive historians, journalists and collectors, the NAHC is the largest public archive of automotive lore in the world. Its collection of books, manuals, photos, company histories, and historic documents is open to the public.

The Friends of the Detroit Public Library assists in supporting the collection through the NAHC Board of Trustees, which raises funds and provides volunteer assistance.