2001 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (92 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 294 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. 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, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1989 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1989 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Malibu | 21 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 92 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
