2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (193 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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 | 1997 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Jeep |
| Model | Malibu | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2464 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 57 L |
