2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1971 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP) has 110 more horse power than 1971 Opel Rekord. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 161 kg more than 1971 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Opel Rekord 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 1971 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Rekord. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1971 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1971 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1971 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2680 mm |
