1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 GMC Safari
To start off, 1997 GMC Safari is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 GMC Safari weights approximately 549 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 GMC Safari 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 1997 GMC Safari. 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, 1997 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 GMC Safari | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | Malibu | Safari |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 98 L |
