1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 260 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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 (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2650 mm |
