1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 10 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 3,458 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 44 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.
Because 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe (298 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Hyundai |
| Model | Malibu | Santa Fe |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 72 L |
