2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 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 (167 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 534 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. 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 (160 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1989 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1989 Renault 21 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 | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Malibu | 21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2820 mm |
