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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 4800 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. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 58 kg more than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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 (285 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (249 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 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2424 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 57 L |
