1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Ford Flex
To start off, 2011 Ford Flex 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Flex weights approximately 643 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.
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, 2011 Ford Flex (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 Ford Flex | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Flex |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2028 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5126 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2995 mm |
