1997 Peugeot 406 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406.
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 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Peugeot 406 has manual transmission. 1997 Peugeot 406 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Peugeot 406 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Peugeot | Chevrolet |
| Model | 406 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 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 | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
