1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 48 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 315 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan 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 (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (163 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan 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 | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
Model | Malibu | Laurel |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1952 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 102 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 163 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1070 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |