1997 Chrysler Viper vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 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, 1997 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 398 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chrysler 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 1997 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1997 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 475 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chrysler Viper | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Viper | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7984 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
