2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1981 Ford Cortina. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 416 kg more than 1981 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Cortina 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 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 63 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 54 L |
