1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (180 HP) has 120 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 537 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Laurel | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Nissan | Chevrolet |
| Model | Laurel | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1642 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2738 mm |
