1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Ford Sierra
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 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 (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1989 Ford Sierra. (74 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 455 kg more than 1989 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 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 (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Sierra. (122 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Sierra. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1989 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 | 1989 Ford Sierra | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Malibu | Sierra |
Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 249 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1010 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |