1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2002 Citroen Xsara is newer by 6 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2002 Citroen Xsara. (72 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 385 kg more than 2002 Citroen Xsara. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen Xsara. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2002 Citroen Xsara 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 | 2002 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Citroen |
| Model | Malibu | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 54 L |
