1981 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter weights approximately 624 kg more than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice.
Because 1981 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 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Transporter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Transporter has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Caprice | 2008 Volkswagen Transporter | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caprice | Transporter |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
