1998 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2008 Dodge Viper is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 8,285 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Viper (499 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 378 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (121 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Viper weights approximately 386 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2008 Dodge Viper (711 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 528 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2008 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Cavalier | Viper |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 8285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 499 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 711 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 102.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 100.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1601 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
