1980 Chevrolet El Camino vs. 1996 Chevrolet Camaro
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Camaro is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet El Camino would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Camaro (255 HP) has 120 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Camaro should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Camaro weights approximately 2 kg more than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Chevrolet Camaro 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 1996 Chevrolet Camaro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Camaro (380 Nm) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (271 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Camaro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino has automatic transmission and 1996 Chevrolet Camaro has manual transmission. 1996 Chevrolet Camaro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | 1996 Chevrolet Camaro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | El Camino | Camaro |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4400 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 255 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1557 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2750 mm |
