2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 50 more horse power than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. (150 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 609 kg more than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. 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 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus has manual transmission. 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 | 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Talbot |
| Model | Malibu | Sunbeam-Lotus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 40 L |
