2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,949 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fairlane (186 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1989 Ford Fairlane 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 1989 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1989 Ford Fairlane (338 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 3949 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 186 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2930 mm |
