2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Nissan Pulsar
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Nissan Pulsar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan Pulsar would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 381 kg more than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. 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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. (97 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan Pulsar. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Nissan Pulsar has manual transmission. 1986 Nissan Pulsar 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 | 1986 Nissan Pulsar | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Pulsar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2420 mm |
