2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1971 Fiat 124
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 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 109 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 468 kg more than 1971 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Fiat 124 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 1971 Fiat 124. 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 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1971 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1971 Fiat 124 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 | 1971 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Malibu | 124 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2500 mm |
