1980 Chevrolet El Camino vs. 1997 Dodge Sidewinder
To start off, 1997 Dodge Sidewinder is newer by 17 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 8,000 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Sidewinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Sidewinder (641 HP) has 506 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Sidewinder should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino weights approximately 498 kg more than 1997 Dodge Sidewinder.
Because 1997 Dodge Sidewinder 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 1997 Dodge Sidewinder. 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, 1997 Dodge Sidewinder (719 Nm) has 448 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (271 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Sidewinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | 1997 Dodge Sidewinder | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | El Camino | Sidewinder |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4400 cc | 8000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 641 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1057 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2850 mm |
