Todd Richmond - you said it best!
TZL - I can somewhat relate since I've owned a modified Twin Turbo Z:
http://www.speedoptions.com/news_hot...fault&v=5&pg=0
The Viper chassis is very stiff. In fact, when pulling up on a driveway (angled to avoid scrapes), one of the wheels don't touch the ground. The hood cracks you've heard about, was probably caused by closing the hood improperly. If you're getting a used one, try to find one with a warranty, or spend the extra cash to get a warranty (peach of mind, in case you'll need it).
My recently purchased Viper exceeded all my expectations. Then again, I've seen some people complained about little things, that should not be expected out of a street legal race car (RT10/GTS).
Only thing I miss about my Z, was that I could basically leave it anywhere unattended, and the blow off valves.