1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 Nissan Xterra.
Because 2009 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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 Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 Xterra has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 Xterra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
