2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1997 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 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, 1997 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler 300. (242 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1997 Chrysler Viper.
Because 1997 Chrysler 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 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300, 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 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler 300. (340 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler 300. 2009 Chrysler 300 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 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler 300 | 1997 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | 300 | Viper |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 7984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2450 mm |
