2012 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (121 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4872 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2852 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 57 L |
