2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra 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 93 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 434 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (160 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra 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 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
