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 3,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (82 HP @ 4400 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 194 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 (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (185 Nm @ 1800 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 | 3501 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
