2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 590 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort 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 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Escort |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1117 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2610 mm |
