1997 Dodge Viper vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 15 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 233 more horse power than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (182 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 234 kg more than 1997 Dodge Viper.
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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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 431 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (233 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Dodge | Buick |
| Model | Viper | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2837 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 59 L |
