1989 Nissan Laurel vs. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 1989 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1989 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1989 Nissan Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Nissan Laurel | 2011 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Nissan | Chevrolet |
| Model | Laurel | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2852 mm |
