2009 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1997 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 2009 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 12 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, 2009 Cadillac Escalade (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Chrysler Viper. (389 HP @ 5150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1997 Chrysler Viper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 1019 kg more than 1997 Chrysler Viper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac Escalade is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chrysler Viper. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade will offer significantly more control. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac Escalade. (565 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac Escalade. 2009 Cadillac Escalade 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. 2009 Cadillac Escalade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac Escalade | 1997 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chrysler |
| Model | Escalade | Viper |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6161 cc | 7984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 403 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 565 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2609 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2450 mm |
