1998 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 1999 Toyota Prius
To start off, 1999 Toyota Prius is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Prizm is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota Prius (127 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota Prius weights approximately 525 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1998 Chevrolet Prizm (169 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota Prius. (108 Nm). This means 1998 Chevrolet Prizm will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota Prius. 1999 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1998 Chevrolet Prizm has manual transmission. 1998 Chevrolet Prizm will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Prizm | 1999 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Prizm | Prius |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2440 mm |
