1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Chevrolet Lumina
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Lumina 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 3,565 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Lumina (254 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 207 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 2008 Chevrolet Lumina is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Chevrolet Lumina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Lumina (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2008 Chevrolet Lumina | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Lumina |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1592 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2790 mm |
