1996 Chrysler Viper vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 12 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 285 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 38 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat, 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 369 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Viper | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1552 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
