1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2006 Ford Explorer 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, 2006 Ford Explorer 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (407 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2890 mm |
