2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1980 Opel Commodore
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1980 Opel Commodore. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Opel Commodore weights approximately 237 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Impala.
Because 1980 Opel Commodore 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 1980 Opel Commodore. 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 (291 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Commodore. (179 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Commodore. 2009 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1980 Opel Commodore has manual transmission. 1980 Opel Commodore 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 | 1980 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Impala | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1312 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
