2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Saab 900
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saab 900 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 13 more horse power than 1997 Saab 900. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 437 kg more than 1997 Saab 900. 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saab 900. (178 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saab 900. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1997 Saab 900 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 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saab |
| Model | Malibu | 900 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 68 L |
