2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Lexus ES
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus ES weights approximately 269 kg more than 2009 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, 1998 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1998 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Malibu | ES |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1261 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2680 mm |
