1997 Chevy Malibu - Car Of The Year
All This, Plus The Malibu's Legendary ValueCan Chevrolet convince buyers that it's finally offering a right-size family sedan that really challenges the midsize imports? That challenge seems to be, Before you buy an import, drive a Malibu. It's a challenge that shouldn't be taken lightly by any of Malibu's competitors.
We selected the Chevrolet Malibu as the 1997 Motor Trend Car of the Year because it embodies quality, performance, fuel economy, precise driving dynamics, smooth ride, attention to comfort, top-notch safety engineering, and a level of standard luxury features previously unheard of in this price class. At just above $18,915 fully loaded, the top-line Malibu LS offers standard goodies that push most midsize pricetags well above $20,000.
Behold the new standard in affordable domestic family sedans: Welcome to Malibu.
| TECH DATA |
| Chevrolet Malibu LS |
| GENERAL |
| Manufacturer | Chevrolet Motor Division,Warren, Mich. |
| Location of final assembly plant | Oklahoma City, Okla.,and Wilmington, Del. |
| EPA size class | Midsize |
| Body style | 4-door, 5-passenger |
| Drivetrain layout | Front engine, front drive |
| Airbag | Dual |
| Base price | $18,190 |
| Price as tested | $18,915 |
| Options included | CD player, $200 |
| Ancillary charges | Destination, $525 |
| Typical market competition | Chrysler Cirrus,
Dodge Stratus, Ford Contour,
Honda Accord, Mercury Mystique,
Nissan Altima, Plymouth Breeze,
Toyota Camry |
| DIMENSIONS |
| Wheelbase, in./mm | 107.0/2718 |
| Track, f/r, in./mm | 59.1/59.3/1501/1506 |
| Length, in./mm | 190.4/4836 |
| Width, in./mm | 69.4/1763 |
| Height, in./mm | 56.4/1433 |
| Ground clearance, in./mm | 5.7 |
| Manufacturer's base curb weight, lb | 3107 |
| Weight distribution, f/r, % | 65/35 |
| Cargo capacity, cu ft | 16.4 |
| Fuel capacity, gal | 15.0 |
| Weight/power ratio, lb/hp | 20.0 |
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