Interesting... it's a cool car for sure, but I'm not sure I would ever own a Viper (even if I could fit in them).

*Gen 1 cars are Iron blocks w/ head gasket issues (the TSB replaces them with MLS gaskets)
*They make decent power and lots of torque
*There is no top and the soft tops have plastic side windows an they leak
*The interior is a joke

The Pros:
*Modern day shelby cobra
*Torque... tons of it
*Rare = lots of looks

As for boosting... a Gen 1 motor needs head gaskets etc. The early Gen 2s have forged pistons (96 for sure, and I think '97). After that they have cast pistons and need motor work for decent boost.

I've driven a few Gen 2s and one Gen 3 but never a 1st gen... I'm surprised you paid $35,000 for a 14 year old car when you can get something like a new '08 C6 for $40,000. Not saying you want a C6 but for $35,000 I'd expect more car.

The one you got does look to be in nice shape though.... enjoy it