1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Mazda 2
To start off, 2005 Mazda 2 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 51 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 435 kg more than 2005 Mazda 2. 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 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 2. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 2 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 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 45 L |
