1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1973 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 369 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1973 Datsun 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 1973 Datsun Laurel. 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 (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1973 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1973 Datsun Laurel 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 | 1973 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Malibu | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
