1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Dodge Viper
To start off, 1998 Dodge Viper is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 8,001 cc (10 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Viper (450 HP) has 300 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 328 kg more than 1998 Dodge Viper.
Because 1998 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 1998 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 1998 Dodge Viper (664 Nm) has 454 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm). This means 1998 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Viper has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1998 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Viper |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 8001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 450 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 664 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1057 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2450 mm |
