1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Ford Aerostar
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Aerostar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Aerostar would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Aerostar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Ford Aerostar. (133 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Aerostar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Aerostar weights approximately 129 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1997 Ford Aerostar is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Ford Aerostar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Ford Aerostar (217 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Aerostar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Ford Aerostar | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Aerostar |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3030 mm |
