1989 Chrysler Viper vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 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 231 more horse power than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 383 kg more than 2007 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 (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 432 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chrysler Viper | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Viper | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 621 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1207 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2340 mm |
