1997 Opel Frontera vs. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Frontera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Frontera would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Opel Frontera. (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Frontera.
Because 1997 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Opel Frontera 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, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Frontera. (203 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Frontera. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Opel Frontera has manual transmission. 1997 Opel Frontera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Frontera | 2011 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Opel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Frontera | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2852 mm |
