2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1984 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Fiesta 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 104 more horse power than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (96 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 719 kg more than 1984 Ford Fiesta. 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 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Fiesta. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1984 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1984 Ford Fiesta 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 | 1984 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2300 mm |
