1997 Dodge Viper vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP) has 103 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Viper. (415 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Viper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 544 kg more than 1997 Dodge Viper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Viper. (664 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Viper. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viper | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 7291 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 518 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 766 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98.6 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
