2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Viper would be higher. At 7,990 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (376 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 1997 Dodge Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Viper has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Viper |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 7990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
