1998 Chrysler Viper vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 421 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318. 2008 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1998 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1998 Chrysler Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler Viper | 2008 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Chrysler | BMW |
| Model | Viper | 318 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 621 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
