1998 Dodge Viper vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Viper would be higher. At 8,001 cc (10 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP) has 68 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Viper. (450 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Viper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 883 kg more than 1998 Dodge Viper. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Viper. (664 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Viper. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Viper has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Viper | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viper | CLS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8001 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 518 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1057 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1407 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 80 L |
