1973 Opel Rekord vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (187 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1973 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 495 kg more than 1973 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Rekord 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 1973 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Rekord. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1973 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1973 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Rekord | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Opel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Rekord | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2738 mm |
