2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lancia Thema 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 50 more horse power than 1986 Lancia Thema. (150 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Lancia Thema. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 405 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema. 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lancia Thema. (240 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lancia Thema.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lancia |
| Model | Malibu | Thema |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2670 mm |
