1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 12 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 124 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (454 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Avalanche |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3310 mm |
