2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1974 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Ford Fairlane (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 300 kg more than 1974 Ford Fairlane.
Because 1974 Ford Fairlane 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 1974 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1974 Ford Fairlane (325 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1974 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 3984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2950 mm |
