1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 225 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru XT has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru XT 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 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Subaru |
| Model | Malibu | XT |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2470 mm |
