1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2006 Nissan Xterra 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 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Xterra (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 124 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 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra (386 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 80 L |
