1998 Chrysler Viper vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 14 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 89 more horse power than 2012 BMW X3. (300 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1998 Chrysler Viper.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Chrysler Viper. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW X3. (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW X3. 2012 BMW X3 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. 2012 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler Viper | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | BMW |
| Model | Viper | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 621 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2810 mm |
