1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2001 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2001 Dodge Ram is newer by 4 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 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Ram weights approximately 685 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 2001 Dodge Ram 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, 2001 Dodge Ram 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, 2001 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2001 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2001 Dodge Ram 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 | 2001 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Ram |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2790 mm |
