2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 57 L |
