1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Elantra 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 13 more horse power than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (137 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 270 kg more than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. 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) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (183 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2002 Hyundai Elantra 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 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Hyundai |
| Model | Malibu | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 183 Nm |
| 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 | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
