2009 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (415 HP) has 1 more horse power than 2009 BMW M3. (414 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 149 kg more than 1997 Dodge Viper.
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 Dodge Viper (664 Nm) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1997 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | M3 | Viper |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 415 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 664 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
