1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Chevrolet Spark
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Spark is newer by 11 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 99 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. (51 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 590 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. 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 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. (69 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet Spark has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet Spark 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 | 2008 Chevrolet Spark | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Spark |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 795 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2350 mm |
