1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 400 would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (149 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 251 kg more than 1996 Proton 400. 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, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 Proton 400 has manual transmission. 1996 Proton 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Proton |
| Model | Malibu | 400 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
