2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort 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 76 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 481 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Escort |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
