2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 164 kg more than 1997 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Traverse | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2760 mm |
