1996 Chrysler Viper vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1996 Chrysler Viper. (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Chrysler Viper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 10 kg more than 1996 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chrysler Viper. (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chrysler Viper. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1996 Chrysler Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Viper | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viper | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 605 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
