2008 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,984 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 165 kg more than 2008 BMW 320. 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, 1997 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 419 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1997 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1997 Chrysler Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1997 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 320 | Viper |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 7984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
