1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1976 Dodge Aspen
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1976 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Dodge Aspen weights approximately 100 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1976 Dodge Aspen 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 Dodge Aspen. 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 Dodge Aspen (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1976 Dodge Aspen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1976 Dodge Aspen has manual transmission. 1976 Dodge Aspen 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 | 1976 Dodge Aspen | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Aspen |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2870 mm |
