2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Fiat Strada
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Strada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Strada 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 75 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Strada. (125 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 589 kg more than 1981 Fiat Strada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Strada. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Strada. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat Strada has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat Strada 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 | 1981 Fiat Strada | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Malibu | Strada |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
