1981 Ford Capri vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Capri would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 383 kg more than 1981 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Capri 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 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala, 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 Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (221 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri. 2012 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Capri has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Capri will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Capri | 2012 Chevrolet Impala | |
Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
Model | Capri | Impala |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2792 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 355 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1613 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1852 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1491 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2807 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 64 L |