1997 Dodge Viper vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 12 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 205 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (210 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 454 kg more than 1997 Dodge Viper.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Dodge Viper. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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 345 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Nitro. 2009 Dodge Nitro 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. 2009 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Viper | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 3699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 74 L |
