2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1997 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala 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 182 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (233 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 43 kg more than 1997 Dodge Viper.
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 Chevrolet Impala, 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 (664 Nm) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (325 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. 2009 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Viper has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1997 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Impala | Viper |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3899 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 233 HP | 415 HP |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 664 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 68 L |
