2007 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Leopard.
Because 1981 Nissan Leopard 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 Nissan Leopard. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard. 2007 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Leopard has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Leopard will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Leopard |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2630 mm |
