1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1970 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1970 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1970 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 309 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1970 Chevrolet Impala 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 1970 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, both vehicles can yield 251 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1970 Chevrolet Impala has manual transmission. 1970 Chevrolet Impala will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1970 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Impala |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 98.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 3100 mm |
