1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1987 Ford Sierra
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Sierra 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 90 more horse power than 1987 Ford Sierra. (66 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 236 kg more than 1987 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Ford Sierra 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 1987 Ford Sierra. 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 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (142 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Sierra. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Sierra 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 | 1987 Ford Sierra | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Malibu | Sierra |
Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2303 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 66 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2620 mm |