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, 1987 Ford Sierra (204 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Sierra should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 500 kg more than 1987 Ford Sierra.
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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (277 Nm @ 4500 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 | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 90.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2500 mm |
