1998 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1996 Chrysler Viper.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1996 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 323 | Viper |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
