1981 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix 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, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (132 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Matrix.
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 Toyota Matrix, 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, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (173 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Caprice | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Caprice | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2601 mm |
