1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Ford Laser
To start off, 2002 Ford Laser 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 45 more horse power than 2002 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 350 kg more than 2002 Ford Laser. 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 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Laser. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Laser. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Laser 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 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Laser |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
