2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 325 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1981 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Patrol will offer significantly more control. 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 (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Patrol. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Patrol has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Patrol 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 | 1981 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Patrol |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2980 mm |
