1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu 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 30 more horse power than 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 191 kg more than 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
