2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 30 kg more than 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1980 Chevrolet Caprice (334 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1980 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Chevrolet Caprice | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Caprice |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 5002 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 94.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2950 mm |
