1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1997 Dodge Viper
To start off, 1997 Dodge Viper is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant 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 238 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 145 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. 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 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 1997 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | Valiant | Viper |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 7990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
