2003 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 205 kg more than 2003 BMW M3. 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, 1989 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1989 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | M3 | Viper |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 621 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
