2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1996 Vector M12
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Vector M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Vector M12 would be higher. At 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Vector M12 weights approximately 555 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Vector M12 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 1996 Vector M12. 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, 1996 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (291 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. 2009 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1996 Vector M12 has manual transmission. 1996 Vector M12 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 | 1996 Vector M12 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Vector |
| Model | Impala | M12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2750 mm |
