1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 13 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
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 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
