2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (240 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (197 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Chevrolet Express (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (327 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Express |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3900 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3440 mm |
