Dodge Viper vs. Mazda RX-8 Review

Utility
The Mazda RX-8 will indubitably prove more convenient than the Viper for those of you with frequent kid-cargo.

Performance
Regarding horsepower, the Dodge Viper packs quite a wallop and will knock the Mazda down a few rungs. On the other hand, note that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Dimensions
The Viper is slightly heavier than the Mazda. Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Viper than the RX-8 because of its bigger tank. The RX-8 and the Dodge Viper compete for the same parking spaces. The Dodge Viper's shorter wheelbase will likely give a more agile feel in daily traffic. On the flip side, the Mazda RX-8 is likely to have a smoother, more stable ride.

Convenience
You'll most definitely take the Dodge Viper for a fill-up approximately as often as the Mazda RX-8. You most definitely won't have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Dodge Viper than with the Mazda RX-8, because both offer similar mileage ranges.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. The Mazda RX-8 is quite a bit cheaper to get to the dealership than the Dodge. In terms of fuel economy, the Mazda bests the Dodge Viper. As far as fuel economy, the Mazda RX-8 has the Dodge Viper beat. When it comes to MSRP, the RX-8 costs tremendously less than the Dodge Viper. The Viper will cost you a bundle in gasoline every year compared to the Mazda RX-8.

Handling
The Dodge Viper has tremendously wider tires than the Mazda. Note that bigger tires might look and feel better, while narrower tires may provide better handling in deep snow. With its tighter turning circle, the Mazda RX-8 is doubtless nimbler than the Dodge Viper, something to consider if you do a lot of city driving; on the other hand, note that a vehicle with a tight turning circle may feel a bit twitchy on the highway.

Drivetrain
The Mazda RX-8's engine is tremendously smaller than the Dodge Viper's. Remember that a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder; on the other hand, smaller engines are often cheaper to fix. Torque equals pickup, and the Dodge will have picked up and gone by the time the Mazda finally gets moving. The Mazda RX-8 could learn a lesson or two from the Dodge when it comes to pickup.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Mazda offers a bit more head room than the Dodge Viper, there honestly isn't much of a difference.

Overview
The Mazda RX-8 and the Viper have the same basic warranty.