2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1997 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ranger 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 116 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ranger.
Because 1997 Ford Ranger 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 1997 Ford Ranger. 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 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1997 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Impala | Ranger |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3900 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2840 mm |
