1989 Chrysler Viper vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 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 (449 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 388 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1989 Chrysler Viper (664 Nm) has 444 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chrysler Viper | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Viper | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 449 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2270 mm |
