A 1996 Dodge Viper RT/10 that sat atop a 30-foot pole outside Audubon Chrysler in Kentucky for nearly 28 years was recently brought down for inspection and restoration, revealing unexpected deterioration inside the vehicle. The car, first hoisted into the air in May 1996 as part of a marketing display, had become a local landmark and had only been lowered once before, in 2009.
The dealership originally elevated the Viper as a promotional move, using the bright red sports car as a highly visible attraction instead of placing it on the sales lot. The vehicle, showing just 12 original miles on the odometer, remained mounted high above the property for decades. In November 2024, marking 15 years since its last refurbishment, the dealership arranged for the car to be taken down again for evaluation. Images shared by a local resident documented the removal process and indicated that restoration efforts would be more extensive than initially expected.
Upon inspection, the Viper showed significant wear from prolonged exposure. The paint had deteriorated, and the interior was found to contain mold. An entire bird’s nest had developed inside the engine bay. Despite speculation over the years that the elevated car might have been a replica or shell, the dealership confirmed it was a complete, authentic Viper.
The vehicle was transported to Keen’s Auto Body and Paint for refinishing work, including a full repaint of its red exterior. The restoration aimed to return the car to its original appearance while preserving its status as a recognizable feature of the dealership.
Following the refurbishment, the Dodge Viper has been restored to display condition, maintaining its role as a longstanding visual fixture associated with the dealership since 1996.
Via Viper Club of America/Facebook
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