2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (167 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 339 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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 Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (160 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 57 L |
