1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1989 Dodge Viper
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Viper would be higher. At 7,994 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Viper (400 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Viper weights approximately 254 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Dodge 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 1989 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1989 Dodge Viper (610 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1989 Dodge Viper has manual transmission. 1989 Dodge Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1989 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Cavalier | Viper |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 7994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 610 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 98.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 83 L |
