1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort 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) has 81 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 556 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort 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 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Escort |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 74 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
