1996 Chrysler Viper vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chrysler Viper 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 161 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 162 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 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, 1996 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 409 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Viper | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Viper | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
