1997 Ford Escort vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (187 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 390 kg more than 1997 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Escort | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1462 mm |
