2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort 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 141 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 614 kg more than 1986 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 (298 Nm) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (100 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort 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 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Escort |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 64.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
