2009 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox 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 3,349 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (182 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 735 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.
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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Equinox. (210 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Equinox.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Equinox | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Equinox | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3349 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 1406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 56 L |
