2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (219 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (297 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 297 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
