1997 Dodge Viper vs. 1972 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1997 Dodge Viper is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 7,990 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (376 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 302 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 515 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen K 70, 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 Dodge Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 496 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 1972 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | K 70 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7990 cc | 1605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2700 mm |
