1997 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. 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, 1989 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1989 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | M3 | Viper |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 621 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
