1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1976 Chrysler Valiant
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,342 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (200 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 35 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Chrysler Valiant 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 1976 Chrysler Valiant. 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, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (362 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1976 Chrysler Valiant | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Malibu | Valiant |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 4342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 362 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
