2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Rekord 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 54 more horse power than 1986 Opel Rekord. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 74 kg more than 1986 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Opel Rekord 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 1986 Opel Rekord. 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Rekord. (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1986 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1306 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2600 mm |
