1989 Dodge Shadow vs. 1994 Dodge Viper
To start off, 1994 Dodge Viper is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Shadow. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Shadow would be higher. At 7,988 cc (10 cylinders), 1994 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Dodge Viper (359 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Shadow. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Shadow. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Dodge Viper weights approximately 254 kg more than 1989 Dodge Shadow. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Dodge 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 1994 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow, 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, 1994 Dodge Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Dodge Shadow. (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1994 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Dodge Shadow.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Shadow | 1994 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Shadow | Viper |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 7988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 359 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1288 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
