1988 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,032 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. (138 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 676 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen T5.
Because 1988 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 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. (347 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. 1988 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Chevrolet Caprice | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caprice | T5 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5032 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
