1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 61 L |
