1992 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1992 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1992 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1992 Ford Thunderbird 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 1992 Ford Thunderbird. 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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Ford Thunderbird | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Thunderbird | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
