1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1987 Mazda 626
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 65 kg more than 1987 Mazda 626. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1987 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1987 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1987 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 626 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2580 mm |
