2001 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500

To start off, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chevrolet Impala 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) has 350 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Impala. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 weights approximately 161 kg more than 2001 Chevrolet Impala. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Ford Shelby GT500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Impala, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 386 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Impala. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chevrolet Impala. 2001 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 has manual transmission. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Chevrolet Impala 2012 Ford Shelby GT500
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Impala Shelby GT500
Year Released 2001 2012
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 5400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 200 HP 550 HP
Torque 305 Nm 691 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1572 kg 1733 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 61 L