2005 Dodge Viper vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Dodge Viper is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 8,276 cc (10 cylinders), 2005 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Dodge Viper (493 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 351 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Dodge Viper weights approximately 308 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323, 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, 2005 Dodge Viper (712 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 532 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Viper | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Viper | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8276 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 712 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1523 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
