1981 Chevrolet Impala and Caprice Classic
 The 1981 Chevrolet Impala tweaked its transmission to improve mileage. |
GM's Computer Command Control (CCC) emission system improved driveability somewhat while lending a hand in meeting 1981's stricter emissions regulations, but bigger news came in the form of a new four-speed automatic transmission with long-legged 0.67:1 overdrive fourth gear. Combined with a lock-up torque converter, a Caprice or Impala with the 305-cubic-inch V-8 (the only engine available with the four-speed automatic) registered an impressive 26 EPA highway miles-per-gallon, a figure that could very nearly be duplicated in "real world" driving.
Engine choices continued from 1980 but with slightly less horsepower. The base powerplant was again a 229-cubic-inch V-6, now with 110 horsepower (California cars got a Buick-built 231, also with 110 horsepower). Optional was a 267-cubic-inch V-8 with 115 horsepower and the aforementioned 305 V-8 with 150.
For 1980, only station wagons could get an Oldsmobile 350-cubic-inch diesel V-8, but availability of that engine was expanded to include all Impala and Caprice models for 1981.
 The handsome 1981 Chevrolet Impala stayed competitive even as a full-size. |
| Model | Weight range (lbs.) | Price range (new) | Number built |
| Impala | 3,326-3,897 | $7,129-$7,765 | 85,964 |
| Caprice | 3,363-3,940 | $7,534-$8,112 | 133,461 |
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