2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 248 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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 Cavalier (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 57 L |
