2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 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 (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (216 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Malibu | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 75 L |
