1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2007 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 10 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 46 more horse power than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. (104 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 185 kg more than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. (143 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2007 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2007 Hyundai Elantra 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 | 2007 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Hyundai |
| Model | Malibu | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
