1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2008 Subaru Forester 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Forester (228 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Forester weights approximately 79 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 Subaru Forester 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, 2008 Subaru Forester 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, 2008 Subaru Forester (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2008 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Subaru |
| Model | Malibu | Forester |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
