1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2002 Ford Ranger 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 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 22 more horse power than 2002 Ford Ranger. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ranger weights approximately 335 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2002 Ford Ranger 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, 2002 Ford Ranger 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) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Ranger. (207 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Ranger. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Ranger 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 Ranger | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3010 mm |
