2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 2,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota 4Runner.
Because 1997 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner 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, 1997 Toyota 4Runner (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Malibu | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
