1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Ford Focus

To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 13 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 231 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Chevrolet Malibu 2009 Ford Focus
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Malibu Focus
Year Released 1996 2009
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3135 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 156 HP 99 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 251 Nm 145 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 81.4 mm
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1406 kg 1175 kg
Vehicle Length 4840 mm 4390 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 56 L 55 L