1997 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2009 Dodge Challenger
To start off, 2009 Dodge Challenger is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 6,059 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Challenger (419 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. (277 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 71 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (437 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Challenger. (420 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Corvette | 2009 Dodge Challenger | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Corvette | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5737 cc | 6059 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 419 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 437 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 72 L |
