2008 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 124 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cobalt | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2760 mm |
