2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Ford Sierra
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Sierra 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 75 more horse power than 1989 Ford Sierra. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 376 kg more than 1989 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Ford Sierra 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 1989 Ford Sierra. 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 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Sierra. (174 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Sierra. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Sierra 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 | 1989 Ford Sierra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Sierra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
