2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2001 Ford Econovan
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2001 Ford Econovan. (96 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Econovan weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Econovan. (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Econovan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2001 Ford Econovan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Econovan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2210 mm |
