2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 45 kg more than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Caravan. (262 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Caravan. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2880 mm |
