1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra 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 27 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 3250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 65 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
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, 2004 Opel Astra (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
