2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1976 Opel Commodore
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Opel Commodore 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 27 more horse power than 1976 Opel Commodore. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 95 kg more than 1976 Opel Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Opel Commodore 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 Opel Commodore. 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Commodore. (216 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1976 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
