2008 Dodge Viper vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2008 Dodge Viper is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 8,357 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Viper (600 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 517 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Viper weights approximately 945 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2008 Dodge Viper (759 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 630 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Viper | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Viper | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8357 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 600 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 759 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 34 L |
