2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1990 Chevrolet Caprice

To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Chevrolet Caprice (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 515 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1990 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1990 Chevrolet Caprice (346 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Chevrolet Malibu 1990 Chevrolet Caprice
Make Chevrolet Chevrolet
Model Malibu Caprice
Year Released 2004 1990
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2198 cc 5000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 146 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 203 Nm 346 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 94.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 94.6 mm 88.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1435 kg 1950 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 5440 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 2030 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1550 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2950 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 68 L