1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Chrysler 300
To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler 300 (360 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 488 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.
Because 2009 Chrysler 300 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 Chrysler 300. 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 Chrysler 300 (527 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 Chrysler 300 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Malibu | 300 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 5654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 527 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3050 mm |
