2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (207 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (401 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 159 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
