2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1973 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 220 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1973 Chevrolet Impala 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 1973 Chevrolet Impala. 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1973 Chevrolet Impala has manual transmission. 1973 Chevrolet Impala 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 | 1973 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Impala |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 4097 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 98.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3100 mm |
