1972 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 335 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Impala 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 1972 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Impala. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Impala. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1972 Chevrolet Impala has manual transmission. 1972 Chevrolet Impala will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Impala | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Impala | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.2 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2720 mm |
