1997 Chrysler Viper vs. 2003 BMW Z8
To start off, 2003 BMW Z8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,984 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Chrysler Viper. (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chrysler Viper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 BMW Z8.
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 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW Z8. (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW Z8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chrysler Viper | 2003 BMW Z8 | |
| Make | Chrysler | BMW |
| Model | Viper | Z8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7984 cc | 4939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
