1991 Chrysler Viper vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1991 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1991 Chrysler Viper. (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1991 Chrysler Viper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 640 kg more than 1991 Chrysler Viper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Chrysler Viper. (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Chrysler Viper. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1991 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1991 Chrysler Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chrysler Viper | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viper | S |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 536 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 621 Nm | 799 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 5250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3165 mm |
