1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 7 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 55 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 26 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva. 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 (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Meriva 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 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 53 L |
