1985 AC Cobra vs. 1999 Chevrolet Malibu

To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 AC Cobra (320 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 211 kg more than 1985 AC Cobra.

Because 1985 AC Cobra 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 1985 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1985 AC Cobra (522 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. 1999 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1985 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 1985 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 AC Cobra 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
Make AC Chevrolet
Model Cobra Malibu
Year Released 1985 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4942 cc 2392 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 320 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 522 Nm 210 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1175 kg 1386 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1210 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2300 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 76 L