2008 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (172 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 64 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet HHR. (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet HHR. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet HHR has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet HHR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet HHR | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | HHR | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 56 L |
