1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1984 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1984 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1984 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1984 Pontiac Firebird 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 1984 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1984 Pontiac Firebird (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1984 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1984 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Malibu | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2580 mm |
