2009 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 1981 Chevrolet Caprice
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (320 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 480 kg more than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will offer significantly more control. 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 Tahoe (462 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe | 1981 Chevrolet Caprice | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Tahoe | Caprice |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 5002 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 462 Nm | 333 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 5460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2950 mm |
