1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Dodge Dakota is newer by 15 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 306 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 2011 Dodge Dakota 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, 2011 Dodge Dakota 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, 2011 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3340 mm |
