1997 BMW S3 vs. 2007 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2007 Dodge Viper is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 8,277 cc (10 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Viper (493 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Viper weights approximately 155 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. 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, 2007 Dodge Viper (712 Nm) has 382 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2007 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2007 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | S3 | Viper |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 8277 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 712 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 306 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
