1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1966 Volvo 144
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 144. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 144 would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1966 Volvo 144. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1966 Volvo 144. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 195 kg more than 1966 Volvo 144. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Volvo 144 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 1966 Volvo 144. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volvo 144. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volvo 144. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1966 Volvo 144 has manual transmission. 1966 Volvo 144 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1966 Volvo 144 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | 144 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
