1976 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu

To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. (93 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer.

Because 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 1976 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1976 Mitsubishi Lancer 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
Make Mitsubishi Chevrolet
Model Lancer Malibu
Year Released 1976 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1597 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 93 HP 169 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 132 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 4000 mm 4872 mm
Vehicle Width 1540 mm 1786 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2350 mm 2852 mm