1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Mazda 2
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 5 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 72 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (78 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 250 kg more than 2002 Mazda 2. 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 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2002 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2500 mm |
