2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry 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 111 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 719 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 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 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2400 mm |
