1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 13 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
Model | Malibu | Altima |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 244 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1398 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2675 mm |