2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Corolla 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 (200 HP) has 132 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (68 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 619 kg more than 1981 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. 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 (298 Nm) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (105 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Corolla. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1981 Toyota Corolla has manual transmission. 1981 Toyota Corolla 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 | 1981 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Malibu | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 68 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
