1984 Ford Laser vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Laser 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 84 more horse power than 1984 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1984 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 (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Laser. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1984 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1984 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:
| 1984 Ford Laser | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Laser | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 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 |
