1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Renault Alpine
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault Alpine would be higher. At 2,458 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Renault Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault Alpine (200 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault Alpine should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 203 kg more than 1986 Renault Alpine.
Because 1986 Renault Alpine 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 1986 Renault Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1986 Renault Alpine (285 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1986 Renault Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Renault Alpine has manual transmission. 1986 Renault Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1986 Renault Alpine | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Malibu | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 63 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2350 mm |
