1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback 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 (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 84 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback 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 (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Subaru Outback. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Subaru |
| Model | Malibu | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 64 L |
