1978 BMW 520 vs. 1989 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 1989 Chrysler Viper is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1989 Chrysler Viper.
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, 1989 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 1989 Chrysler Viper | |
Make | BMW | Chrysler |
Model | 520 | Viper |
Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 7986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 389 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5150 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 621 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1130 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |