1989 Chrysler Viper vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler Viper 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 229 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 18 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Chrysler Viper is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1989 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1989 Chrysler Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chrysler Viper | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 621 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
