1986 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1986 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Mustang.
Because 1986 Ford Mustang 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 1986 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Mustang. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Mustang 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:
| 1986 Ford Mustang | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Mustang | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2852 mm |
