1980 Ford Laser 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 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Laser would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Laser 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 Ford Laser | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Laser | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2852 mm |
