1972 AMC Javelin vs. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice
To start off, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Javelin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Javelin would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Javelin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Javelin (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Javelin should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 203 kg more than 1972 AMC Javelin.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 AMC Javelin (387 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (280 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Javelin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Javelin | 1978 Chevrolet Caprice | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Javelin | Caprice |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1467 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2950 mm |
