2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (234 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. 2009 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Impala | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3900 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 234 HP | 154 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 325 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2950 mm |