1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2012 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford S-Max is newer by 34 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford S-Max (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford S-Max weights approximately 73 kg more than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Ford S-Max, 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, 2012 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (280 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2012 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2012 Ford S-Max 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 | 2012 Ford S-Max | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Caprice | S-Max |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1743 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |