Currently reading: Dodge's mini-Viper
MX-5-sized Demon concept borrows big brother's style

A Dodge Viper in miniature, this Demon concept is aimed at the Mazda MX-5 – from which Chrysler admits taking direct inspiration – besides America’s Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky roadsters.

The Demon’s dimensions are within a smidge of the Mazda’s, although the wheelbase is longer. The rear wheels are propelled by a 172bhp 2.4-litre four, and it would employ a unique platform were it to make production. Given Chrysler’s current condition, that seems unlikely. But if it happened, a turbocharged 300bhp 2.4 SRT-4 is also a possibility.

Exterior designer Jae Chung describes the Demon "as a small Viper for everyone," the aggressive cross-hair grille leaving you in no doubt that this is a Dodge.

The rest of the Demon’s body is fussier than the Viper’s, a Seat Leon-mimicking crease hopping over the front wheelarch before diving towards a trapezoidal rear brake cooling duct. Trapezoidal shapes repeat to echo the grille, but are more pleasing as air extractors in the bonnet and rear lamps.

Interior designer Dan Zimmerman claims inspiration from British sports cars for the cabin, its stark dashboard reminiscent of the Austin Healey 100/4's, the steering wheel a Triumph TR's. Zimmerman was careful to ensure that the design is ready for production, though Dodge has neither confirmed nor denied that the car will be made.

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