2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 693 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3. 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 (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda MX-3 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 | 1997 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
