2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Nissan Leopard
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 Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 3,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 310 kg more than 1981 Nissan Leopard. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Leopard 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 1981 Nissan Leopard. 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 (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Leopard has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Leopard 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 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Leopard |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3501 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2630 mm |
