1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 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), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 661 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Malibu | Explorer |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 345 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 2067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5006 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2004 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1788 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 70 L |