2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1988 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1988 Opel Kadett. (150 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 562 kg more than 1988 Opel Kadett. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Kadett. (195 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Kadett. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Kadett has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Kadett will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1988 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1007 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
