2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1976 Lada 1200
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lada 1200 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 141 more horse power than 1976 Lada 1200. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1976 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 547 kg more than 1976 Lada 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Lada 1200 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 1976 Lada 1200. 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 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Lada 1200. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Lada 1200. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1976 Lada 1200 has manual transmission. 1976 Lada 1200 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 | 1976 Lada 1200 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lada |
| Model | Malibu | 1200 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 948 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 39 L |
