1997 Dodge Viper vs. 1998 Ford Probe
To start off, 1998 Ford Probe is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Viper 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 261 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 335 kg more than 1998 Ford Probe. 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, 1998 Ford Probe, 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 450 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 1998 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Viper | Probe |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7990 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1320 mm |
