1989 Chrysler Viper vs. 2008 Honda Civic

To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 19 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 249 more horse power than 2008 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 236 kg more than 2008 Honda Civic. 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, 2008 Honda Civic, 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 447 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Civic. (174 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Civic. 2008 Honda Civic 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. 2008 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Chrysler Viper 2008 Honda Civic
Make Chrysler Honda
Model Viper Civic
Year Released 1989 2008
Body Type Roadster Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 7986 cc 1799 cc
Engine Cylinders 10 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 389 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5150 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 621 Nm 174 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
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 1354 kg
Vehicle Length 4460 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Width 1930 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1130 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2710 mm