Images via Audubon Chrysler Center/Facebook
A dealership in Henderson, Kentucky, Audubon Chrysler Center, removed the first-gen Dodge Viper on its notable sign. Many believed the car was a model or shell of a Viper, not a fully functional vehicle, so when it came down they were shocked to see it up close.
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The 1996 Dodge Viper was put on the sign back in 1996, generating plenty of interest at a time when the legendary snake fascinated many gearheads. Since then, it came down once about 15 years ago for some reconditioning.
That’s exactly why the Viper was taken down recently. After all, sitting up high in the elements does take its toll on any vehicle. And as the mascot of the dealership, the sports car needs to keep looking good.
Audubon salesman Travis Little told WEHT that the “Viper in the Sky” draws in people from all over because they want to see it for themselves. After all, how many times do you see a sports car perched on a sign? That, of course, can lead to increased business for the dealership, so it was a wise move.
Photos of the Viper shared by the dealership as well as footage taken by WEHT shows the paint and trim have been oxidized some while sitting in full sun day after day. That can be corrected, as can any other issues. We wonder if the dealer will have some PPF or other protectants applied that weren’t as common or didn’t even exist 15 years ago.
What’s also amazing is a Dodge that’s obviously worth a pretty penny has sat out in the open for 30 years without any criminals trying to steal it. We guess the part where a heavy crane is required just to get it down is discouraging enough for would-be thieves, something Hellcat owners might want to consider.
According to Audubon, the ’96 Dodge Viper should be back on its perch in about a month or so.
Images via Audubon Chrysler Center/Facebook
