1999 Dodge Viper vs. 1977 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 Dodge Viper is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 12 would be higher. At 7,990 cc (10 cylinders), 1999 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Dodge Viper (377 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Dodge Viper weights approximately 665 kg more than 1977 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Renault 12, 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 Dodge Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 526 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Dodge Viper | 1977 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Dodge | Renault |
| Model | Viper | 12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7990 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 377 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 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 | 1565 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |
