1986 Ford Escort vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu

To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort 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 @ 6200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 732 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
Make Ford Chevrolet
Model Escort Malibu
Year Released 1986 2013
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 180 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 244 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 98 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1642 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 4859 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1854 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1462 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2738 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 60 L