1981 Austin Marina vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Marina would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1981 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 689 kg more than 1981 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Austin Marina 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 1981 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Marina. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1981 Austin Marina has manual transmission. 1981 Austin Marina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Marina | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | Marina | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2850 mm |
