1986 Subaru XT 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 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,672 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 279 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru XT has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru XT 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 Subaru XT | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Subaru | Chevrolet |
| Model | XT | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2672 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1557 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
