1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Acura MDX
To start off, 2012 Acura MDX is newer by 15 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Acura MDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Acura MDX (300 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura MDX should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura MDX weights approximately 679 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 2012 Acura MDX is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Acura MDX 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, 2012 Acura MDX (366 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Acura MDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Acura MDX | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Acura |
| Model | Malibu | MDX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4867 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1994 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1732 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2751 mm |
