2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 114 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra 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 | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
