2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1975 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Opel Ascona 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 94 more horse power than 1975 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1975 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 370 kg more than 1975 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Opel Ascona 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 1975 Opel Ascona. 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 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Opel Ascona. (115 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Opel Ascona. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1975 Opel Ascona has manual transmission. 1975 Opel Ascona 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 | 1975 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2640 mm |
