1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1988 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1988 Opel Kadett. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Kadett.
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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Kadett. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Kadett. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Kadett 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 | 1988 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
