1999 Chrysler Viper vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Chrysler Viper is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1999 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chrysler Viper (389 HP) has 336 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 715 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Chrysler 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 1999 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1999 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 524 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chrysler Viper | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
