2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1973 Fiat 126
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 1058 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 126 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 1973 Fiat 126. 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 (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1973 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1973 Fiat 126 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 | 1973 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Malibu | 126 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 20 L |
