1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1972 Chevrolet Vega
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 380 kg more than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Vega 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 1972 Chevrolet Vega. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Vega.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1972 Chevrolet Vega | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Vega |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2287 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2470 mm |
