2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1992 Ford Fairlane

To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Ford Fairlane (198 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 230 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1992 Ford Fairlane 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 1992 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1992 Ford Fairlane (348 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Chevrolet Malibu 1992 Ford Fairlane
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Malibu Fairlane
Year Released 2003 1992
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3135 cc 3984 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 198 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 257 Nm 348 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1610 kg
Vehicle Length 4840 mm 5230 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2930 mm