1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 8 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 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 22 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, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Malibu | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2750 mm |
