http://www.topgear.com/content/news/stories/1582/

The Dodge Viper has joined that exclusive club of cars that will top 250mph.

In fact, the Hennessey Venom Twin Turbo, as this particular tuned Viper is called, is claimed to whup a Veyron's ass with a top speed of 255mph.

Other vital statistics include a 1,000bhp 8.3-litre V10 engine with two turbos attached and 0-60mph in 2.9 seconds.

Developed by American tuner Hennessey, the Venom comes with aerodynamic aids to keep it pinned to the ground at full tilt. These include a new front air dam and rear diffuser.

There's also adjustable traction control and a heavy-duty rear differential to cope with the power.

Despite the monstrous spec of the engine and performance, the Venom has leather-trimmed seats and a DVD navigation system, although there's also a five-point harness for when you take it to the track.

All of this comes with a two-year warranty and a day's private driving tuition on a racing circuit.

And the price? That's $225,000, which works out at a bargain £114,500 to make the Venom the most cost-effective way to 250mph on the planet.

But it's not faster than the Veyron GT

That's pretty impressive, though when you get into the $200+k range, I think most customers are going to want something a little nicer than a Viper, even if the Viper is faster.