1979 Buick Regal vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Regal would be higher. At 4,348 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1979 Buick Regal. (119 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Regal.
Because 1979 Buick Regal 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 1979 Buick Regal. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Buick Regal. (285 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Buick Regal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Buick Regal | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
| Model | Regal | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4348 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2852 mm |
