1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 9 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 365 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.
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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |
