2002 Dodge Viper vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Dodge Viper is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 8,275 cc (10 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Viper (493 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (305 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 135 kg more than 2002 Dodge Viper.
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, 2002 Dodge Viper (712 Nm) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (454 Nm). This means 2002 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Viper | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Viper | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8275 cc | 5747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 712 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2810 mm |
