1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1988 GMC Jimmy

To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,299 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 GMC Jimmy (158 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 GMC Jimmy should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 65 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 GMC Jimmy 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, 1988 GMC Jimmy (313 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1988 GMC Jimmy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1988 GMC Jimmy has manual transmission. 1988 GMC Jimmy 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 1988 GMC Jimmy
Make Chevrolet GMC
Model Malibu Jimmy
Year Released 1997 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2392 cc 4299 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 313 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4330 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1630 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2560 mm