1989 Chrysler Viper vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 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 365 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 167 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (664 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 504 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chrysler Viper | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 449 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |
