1977 Nissan Skyline vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 2,400 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1977 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1977 Nissan Skyline.
Because 1977 Nissan Skyline 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 1977 Nissan Skyline. 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 (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Nissan Skyline. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1977 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1977 Nissan Skyline 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:
| 1977 Nissan Skyline | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Nissan | Chevrolet |
| Model | Skyline | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2852 mm |
