2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 224 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (185 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
