2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1983 Ford Fairlane

To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (131 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 555 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Impala.

Because 1983 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 1983 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1983 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (291 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Impala.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chevrolet Impala 1983 Ford Fairlane
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Impala Fairlane
Year Released 2009 1983
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3500 cc 4092 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 211 HP 131 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 291 Nm 304 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1075 kg 1630 kg
Vehicle Length 5100 mm 5020 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2950 mm