2005 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (590 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 409 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Impala. (181 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 607 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang.
Because 1997 Ford Mustang 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 1997 Ford Mustang. 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, 1997 Ford Mustang (728 Nm) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Impala. (278 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Impala. 2005 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Impala | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Impala | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3343 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 590 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 728 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1537 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2580 mm |
