1971 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 491 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen T5.
Because 1971 Chevrolet Impala 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 1971 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chevrolet Impala | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Impala | T5 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 3010 mm |
