1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (129 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 231 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
Because 1978 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (333 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 2009 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
Model | Caprice | Altima |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5002 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1469 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2780 mm |