2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 129 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1997 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 3795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2580 mm |
