1997 Dodge Viper vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 7,990 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (376 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 373 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 475 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Viper | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7990 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
