1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 2,486 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (152 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 145 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 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier. 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 Nissan Frontier (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2486 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3200 mm |
