1980 Chrysler Avenger vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler Avenger 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 110 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler Avenger. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler Avenger.
Because 1980 Chrysler Avenger 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 1980 Chrysler Avenger. 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 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler Avenger. (93 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler Avenger. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1980 Chrysler Avenger has manual transmission. 1980 Chrysler Avenger 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:
| 1980 Chrysler Avenger | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chevrolet |
| Model | Avenger | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 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 | 4150 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2852 mm |
