1998 Ford Focus vs. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (170 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 434 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (214 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2010 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Focus | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
