1986 Ford Sierra vs. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu

To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1986 Ford Sierra. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 1119 kg more than 1986 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 Ford Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Sierra will offer significantly more control. 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, 1986 Ford Sierra (216 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. (159 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Sierra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Sierra 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
Make Ford Chevrolet
Model Sierra Malibu
Year Released 1986 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2792 cc 2399 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 160 HP 162 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 216 Nm 159 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 10.6:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1266 kg 2385 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1790 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 116 L 61 L