2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1968 Ford Escort
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 575 kg more than 1968 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Ford Escort 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 1968 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (98 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1968 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1968 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1968 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Escort |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 63 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
