2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Mazda 121
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 620 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda 121 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 Mazda 121. 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 (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | 121 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 98 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |