1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 6,505 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (360 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (193 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 304 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Express. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Express. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (583 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Silverado. (515 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Silverado.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2012 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Express | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6505 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 515 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2400 kg | 2704 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5715 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 8032 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1971 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 3396 mm |
