2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1985 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort 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 @ 6400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (132 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 181 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Escort 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 | 1985 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
