2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1972 Isuzu 117
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Isuzu 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Isuzu 117 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1972 Isuzu 117. (120 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1972 Isuzu 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 489 kg more than 1972 Isuzu 117. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Isuzu 117 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 1972 Isuzu 117. 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 (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Isuzu 117. (143 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Isuzu 117.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1972 Isuzu 117 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Isuzu |
| Model | Malibu | 117 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 58 L |
