1997 Ford F-150 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 Ford F-150. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford F-150 would be higher. At 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (360 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1997 Ford F-150. (217 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford F-150. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 685 kg more than 1997 Ford F-150. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford F-150 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Chevrolet Silverado. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-150 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 Chevrolet Silverado (515 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford F-150. (393 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford F-150. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford F-150 has manual transmission. 1997 Ford F-150 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford F-150 | 2012 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | F-150 | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 515 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2105 kg | 2790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 5860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 3650 mm |
