2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1987 Ford Sierra
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Sierra 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 127 more horse power than 1987 Ford Sierra. (74 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 730 kg more than 1987 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Ford Sierra 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 1987 Ford Sierra. 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 (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (123 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Sierra. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Sierra 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 | 1987 Ford Sierra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Sierra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
