2004 Acura TL vs. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 Acura TL 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura TL (267 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura TL weights approximately 193 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 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, 2004 Acura TL (323 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Acura TL has manual transmission. 2004 Acura TL 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 TL | 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Acura | Chevrolet |
| Model | TL | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 267 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 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 | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2760 mm |
