1997 Chrysler Viper vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 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 255 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 365 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 435 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1997 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1997 Chrysler Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chrysler Viper | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viper | A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7984 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
