1989 Dodge Viper vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Viper 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 @ 4600 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 485 kg more than 1989 Dodge Viper.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Dodge Viper. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Viper | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Viper | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7994 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 610 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98.6 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1454 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 85 L |
