2004 Acura RSX vs. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 Acura RSX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 163 kg more than 2004 Acura RSX.
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, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Acura RSX. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Acura RSX. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Acura RSX has manual transmission. 2004 Acura RSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Acura RSX | 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Acura | Chevrolet |
| Model | RSX | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1222 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
