1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe (203 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 469 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe 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, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe (292 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Hyundai |
| Model | Malibu | Santa Fe |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 72 L |
