2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1972 Fiat 124
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 469 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Fiat 124 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1972 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1972 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1972 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Malibu | 124 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 79.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
