1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Chevrolet HHR
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 12 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 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (172 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 85 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.
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, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet HHR has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet HHR 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 | 2008 Chevrolet HHR | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | HHR |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2640 mm |
