1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Chevrolet Caprice
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 4,312 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Caprice (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 645 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 1996 Chevrolet Caprice is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Chevrolet Caprice | |
Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
Model | Malibu | Caprice |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 4312 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 333 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2030 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1550 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2950 mm |