1997 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500
To start off, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (550 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 367 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 162 kg more than 2012 Ford Shelby GT500.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford Shelby GT500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Shelby GT500 (691 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Astro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Astro | 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Astro | Shelby GT500 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 550 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 691 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1733 kg |
