The Dodge Copperhead, also known as the Dodge Concept Car and Dodge Concept Vehicle, was a concept car created by Dodge as a slimmed-down version of the Dodge Viper for buyers who couldn't afford the Viper's $75,000 cost.

Overview

The Dodge Copperhead was unveiled in 1998. Many reviewers[who?] were impressed with its aerodynamic, yet rugged, styling and the fact that its sale price would be about $30,000 USD ($45,000 less than the Viper). The Copperhead, unlike the Viper, was made more for handling and driving pleasure, while the Viper was made more for raw power. The Copperhead had excellent handling due to its low, wide stance. Dodge engineered the Copperhead to make the driver feel the road and the pavement, and this was done by stretching the wheels to the end of the frame, adding 5" of ground clearance and a stiff suspension, making this car marketed more towards enthusiasts. The Dodge concept was due to be released in 2000.

Name controversy

After the unveiling of the Copperhead, Dodge got complaints from another company that had the copyrights to the Copperhead name and as a result, Dodge could not use it. To avoid lawsuits, DaimlerChrysler unofficially renamed the car, with it being referred to as the 'Concept Vehicle' instead of 'Copperhead' in modern press kits, and on scale toys and merchandise. This made press kits or items with the Copperhead name collectibles.