2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 50 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (96 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 307 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 1981 Nissan Laurel. 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
Model | Malibu | Laurel |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1128 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |