The 1996 Dodge Viper GTS remains one of the most significant chapters in American supercar history, marking the arrival of the “double bubble” coupe that redefined the brand’s performance ceiling. This specific example carries an elite pedigree, having been ordered new by former Major League Baseball star Cecil Fielder. Showing a remarkably low 8k miles on the odometer, the car presents as a time capsule of 1990s raw power. Now offered in 2026, it represents a rare intersection of celebrity ownership and preservation-grade quality that appeals to the most discerning Mopar collectors.
The Definitive Blue and White Performance Silhouette
Finished in the iconic Viper GTS Blue with crisp white racing stripes, the exterior of this GTS perfectly captures the aggressive spirit of the era. The coupe body style introduced functional improvements over the original roadster, including a vented hood and projector-style headlights that integrated seamlessly into its muscular curves. Dual center-exit exhaust outlets hint at the aftermarket system components installed, while the 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels maintain the factory-correct stance. Despite its age, the silhouette remains one of the most recognizable and intimidating shapes to ever emerge from Detroit.
Analog Precision and Black Leather Comfort
The cabin is a masterclass in focused ergonomics, featuring bucket seats upholstered in premium black leather that shows minimal wear reflective of the low mileage. Every touchpoint, from the color-matched shift knob to the leather-wrapped steering wheel, emphasizes the mechanical connection between car and driver. This Viper is equipped with a factory Alpine CD stereo and air conditioning, alongside rare-for-the-time features like adjustable pedals and power windows. A signature row of auxiliary gauges for oil pressure and coolant temperature sits atop the center stack, keeping the driver informed during high-performance maneuvers.
Untamed V10 Power and Engaging Manual Control
Beneath the expansive front-hinged hood sits the massive 8.0-liter OHV V10 engine, a powerplant that defined American displacement in the nineties. This legendary engine was factory rated at 450 hp / 456 PS and 490 lb-ft / 664 Nm of torque, delivering a visceral acceleration experience that few rivals could match. Power is channeled through a Tremec T-56 six-speed manual transmission to a limited-slip differential, ensuring the rear wheels handle the massive output with intent. The addition of aftermarket exhaust components further amplifies the unique, guttural roar that has become a trademark of the Viper lineage.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 8.0L OHV V10 |
| Output | 450 hp / 456 PS and 490 lb-ft / 664 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual (T-56) |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Exterior Color | Viper GTS Blue / White Stripes |
| Interior Color | Black Leather |
| Wheels | 17-inch Five-Spoke Alloy |
| Odometer | 8,000 Miles |
Market Position and Celebrity Provenance
In the current collector market, the 1996 GTS is the most coveted variant of the early Vipers, serving as the benchmark for the model’s valuation. While standard high-mileage examples are available, this 8k-mile survivor stands apart due to its direct link to MLB history through Cecil Fielder. It competes directly with the European exotics of its time, such as the Porsche 911 Turbo, yet offers a uniquely American brute-force approach to speed. The inclusion of the original window sticker, showing a 1996 retail price of $69,300, provides the documentation necessary for a blue-chip automotive investment.
A Hall of Fame Collector Opportunity
This 1996 Dodge Viper GTS is more than a performance vehicle; it is a piece of cultural and sporting history. Between the exceptionally low mileage and the documented celebrity background, it offers a level of exclusivity that is becoming increasingly hard to find in the R/T-10 and GTS market. For the enthusiast seeking the ultimate representation of Chrysler’s V10 era, this Bayside Blue icon delivers on every front.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
