1997 Dodge Viper vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle 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 7,990 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (376 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 185 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen 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, 2012 Volkswagen 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 340 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle 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 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Viper | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Viper | Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7990 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 376 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 620 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2537 mm |