1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Ford Focus
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 9 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 (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 223 kg more than 2005 Ford Focus. 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 (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Focus 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 | 2005 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Focus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1242 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
