1986 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,032 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1986 Chevrolet Caprice. (138 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1986 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 247 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Impala.
Because 1986 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 1986 Chevrolet Caprice. 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Chevrolet Caprice. (346 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Chevrolet Caprice.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Chevrolet Caprice | 2012 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Caprice | Impala |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5032 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1902 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2807 mm |
