2008 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1981 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1981 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Mustang.
Because 1981 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 1981 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Mustang. 2008 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Chevrolet Impala | 1981 Ford Mustang | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Impala | Mustang |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3507 cc | 2294 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 211 HP | 87 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 290 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2560 mm |