1981 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 31 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Chevrolet Caprice | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
Model | Caprice | Cruze |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5002 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4597 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1788 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1476 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2685 mm |