1981 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2009 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 28 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. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 817 kg more than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Ram (448 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Caprice | 2009 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Caprice | Ram |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 4701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 448 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 2537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 5820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3560 mm |
