2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Acura RL
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura RL (205 HP) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura RL weights approximately 171 kg more than 2004 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, 1996 Acura RL (304 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 1996 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Acura RL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Acura |
| Model | Malibu | RL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 205 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
