2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 9 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 146 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (230 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 308 kg more than 1997 Dodge Viper.
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, 2006 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 287 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Viper |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 7990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
