• An unforgettable, thrilling exotic hand-built in Detroit
• One of 545 RT/10 convertible examples produced for 2002, and 178 in this color
• Viper Race Yellow over black with yellow removable roof panel
• Fewer than 3,350 miles at time of cataloguing; exceptional, well-maintained condition
• 450 hp, 8.0-liter V-10; six-speed manual transmission

Envisioned as a bare-knuckled, no-nonsense performer in the spirit of the Shelby Cobra, it is nothing short of remarkable that the Dodge Viper made the leap from concept to production car without losing an ounce of its brute appeal—something attributable in no small part to the vision, and strong-headedness, of then-Chrysler global product development head Bob Lutz.

Viper production took place across five distinct generations; this 2002 Viper RT/10 convertible represents the final year of the model’s second, or SR II, generation. Launched in 1996, SR II cars largely retained the dramatic original styling overseen by Tom Gale, yet their 8.0-liter V-10s (still mated to a mandatory six-speed BorgWarner manual transmission) would grow in output to an impressive 450 horsepower. Chassis refinements, as well as airbags, were incorporated over time. The model remained true to its original philosophy, however, and it was fitted with only minimal electronic driver aids!

Displaying under 3,350 miles at the time of cataloguing, this Viper Race Yellow over black RT/10 includes a removable roof panel body-coordinated paint. The cabin features power windows and a CD player but is an otherwise straightforward and driver-focused affair. One of 545 RT/10 convertibles built for 2002, and one of only 178 in this color, it has been carefully maintained from new and presents in excellent condition, with vibrant paint and no damage to its 18-inch polished aluminum five-spoke wheels.

With Dodge Viper production ceasing in 2017, it is all but certain that a mainstream automaker will never put a car quite like this into production ever again—making well-preserved examples of the model, such as this stunning 2002 RT/10, all the more appealing. To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am21.