2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 4,371 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 175 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR (561 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chevrolet |
| Model | XLR | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2760 mm |
