2008 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1985 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1985 Ford Fairlane. (137 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 555 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Impala.
Because 1985 Ford Fairlane 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 1985 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1985 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. 2008 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Fairlane has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Fairlane 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 | 1985 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Impala | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 4089 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2950 mm |
