2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 56 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (164 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 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 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1979 Pontiac Trans Am has manual transmission. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Malibu | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2750 mm |
