1997 Dodge Viper vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf 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 218 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 282 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 384 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98.6 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
