2005 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 206 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Impala.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Impala. (305 Nm). This means 1981 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Impala | 1981 Chevrolet Caprice | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Impala | Caprice |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 cc | 5002 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 333 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1514 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2950 mm |
