Curiosities about the toy and variants
The MOTOR VIPER (v1) action figure, a notable addition to any vintage G.I. Joe collection, was initially released in 1986 as part of the fifth series. This Cobra vehicle driver was originally packaged exclusively with the Cobra STUN.
Later, in 1989, this specific action figure was offered via mail-order from Hasbro Direct within the "Special Missions Drivers" set, which also included Ace, Thunder, Lampreys, Keel-Haul, and Strato-Viper.
It reappeared in 1991 and 1992 as part of the "Cobra Patrol Unit" set, bundled with Strato-Viper and a FANG helicopter. Remaining stock of this figure was also sold at the 1993 G.I. Joe Convention.
Variations
The MOTOR VIPER (v1) features known variations in its head sculpt's molded plastic color. Collectors may find figures with a lighter blue head, which matches the finer details on the top of the helmet, or a darker blue head that corresponds to the primary helmet color. An identifying characteristic for the dark blue molded head is the presence of light blue paint application on the front of the neck ball.