1973 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1986 Ford Tempo

To start off, 1986 Ford Tempo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chevrolet Impala (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1986 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 610 kg more than 1986 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 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 1973 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Tempo, 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, 1973 Chevrolet Impala (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1973 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Tempo. 1986 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 1973 Chevrolet Impala has manual transmission. 1973 Chevrolet Impala will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Chevrolet Impala 1986 Ford Tempo
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Impala Tempo
Year Released 1973 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4097 cc 2307 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 110 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 4700 RPM
Torque 251 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 98.3 mm 96.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89.6 mm 79.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1715 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 5600 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 2030 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 3100 mm 2540 mm