1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 379 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 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 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| 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 | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.1 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 | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
