1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 7 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 19 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 141 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (166 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus 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 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Focus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |
