1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 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 44 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 326 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MX-3 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 | 1996 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2460 mm |
