1997 Dodge Viper vs. 1998 Lexus ES
To start off, 1998 Lexus ES 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (415 HP) has 197 more horse power than 1998 Lexus ES. (218 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus ES weights approximately 24 kg more than 1997 Dodge Viper.
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 Lexus ES, 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 (664 Nm) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus ES. (304 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lexus ES. 1998 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Viper has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 1998 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Dodge | Lexus |
| Model | Viper | ES |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 218 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
