2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1997 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 12 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 218 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 10 kg more than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159, 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 430 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1997 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Dodge |
| Model | 159 | Viper |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 7990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
