1997 Dodge Viper vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1997 Dodge Viper is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta 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 306 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 587 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 487 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7990 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
