2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1978 Ford Capri
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 3,899 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (233 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 559 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Capri 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 1978 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri. 2009 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Capri has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Capri will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1978 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Impala | Capri |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3899 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 233 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
