2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1979 Dodge Aspen
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1979 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1979 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 10 kg more than 1979 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Dodge Aspen 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 1979 Dodge Aspen. 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1979 Dodge Aspen | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Aspen |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 117.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
