1997 Dodge Viper vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 2 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 287 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 317 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 410 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7990 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
