1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra 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 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (217 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 53 kg more than 2012 GMC Sierra.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 GMC Sierra (413 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (379 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Express.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | Express | Sierra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 413 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 2311 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5847 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2032 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1875 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 3645 mm |
