The second generation of the Viper, codenamed "SR II" was introduced in 1996. The exposed side exhaust pipes were removed and replace with a single muffler design, which reduced back pressure, and increased horsepower and torque. Some steel suspension components were replaced by aluminum, also lightening the vehicleThe Viper GTS, also known as the “double bubble”, the bubble like raised sections of the roof were added to accommodate the use of race helmets. The Dodge Viper GTS the pace car for the 1996 Indianapolis 500.The 1996 Viper GTS was also the first Viper to be equipped with airbags, air conditioning, power windows and power door locks as standard equipment.