2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1973 Fiat 500
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (240 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500.
Because 1973 Fiat 500 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 1973 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (327 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1973 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1973 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1973 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Malibu | 500 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3900 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 27 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 2980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 22 L |
