1983 Ford Fairlane vs. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (131 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fairlane.
Because 1983 Ford Fairlane 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 1983 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1983 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fairlane | 2011 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Fairlane | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2852 mm |
