2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1973 Nissan Bluebird
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Bluebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Bluebird 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 124 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 540 kg more than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Nissan Bluebird 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 Nissan Bluebird. 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 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1973 Nissan Bluebird has manual transmission. 1973 Nissan Bluebird 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 Nissan Bluebird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Bluebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
