2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra 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 79 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra.
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 (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra 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 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 44 L |
