1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra 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, 2002 Opel Astra (187 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 9 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.
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, 2002 Opel Astra (256 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra | |
Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
Model | Malibu | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 187 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 256 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2620 mm |