1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 304 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 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
