2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1973 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 325 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-4 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 Mazda RX-4. 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1973 Mazda RX-4 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | RX-4 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |