1977 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1997 Dodge Viper
To start off, 1997 Dodge Viper is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 7,990 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (376 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 1977 Chrysler 1609. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1977 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 475 kg more than 1977 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Dodge Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 487 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chrysler 1609 | 1997 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | 1609 | Viper |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 7990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
