1989 Dodge Viper vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1989 Dodge Viper is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 7,994 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Viper (400 HP) has 347 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Viper weights approximately 579 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Dodge Viper (610 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 513 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Viper | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7994 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 610 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1454 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
