1996 Chrysler Viper vs. 1973 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1996 Chrysler Viper is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (135 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 470 kg more than 1973 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Nissan Skyline, 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, 1996 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Viper | 1973 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | Viper | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
