1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION 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 18 more horse power than 2004 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 156 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION. 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 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Saturn ION has manual transmission. 2004 Saturn ION 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 Saturn ION | |
Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
Model | Malibu | ION |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2187 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2630 mm |