1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2013 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC90 is newer by 16 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo XC90 (237 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 752 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, 2013 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2013 Volvo XC90 has manual transmission. 2013 Volvo XC90 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 | 2013 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2137 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4807 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1936 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1784 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2857 mm |
