Chevrolet Malibu IV Station Wagon 5.7 V8 (160 Hp) CAT Automatic


Overall Rating

5.6 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 2.0 / 5
Value 3.0 / 5
Performance 2.5 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Chevrolet Malibu:

The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size car that was manufactured and marketed by Chevrolet from 1964 to 1983 and from 1997 to 2025. The Malibu began as a trim-level of the Chevrolet Chevelle, becoming its own model line in 1978. Originally a rear-wheel-drive intermediate, GM revived the Malibu nameplate as a front-wheel-drive car in 1997.
Named after the coastal community of Malibu, California, the Malibu has been marketed primarily in North America, with the eighth generation introduced globally. Malibu production in the US ended in November 2024, as the Fairfax plant is being retooled for the upcoming second-generation Chevrolet Bolt. The Malibu is now the last sedan to have been sold by Chevrolet in the US....(Read more on Wikipedia)

IV Station Wagon Overview:

Chevrolet Malibu (IV Station Wagon). With 325 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1588 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.

5.7 V8 (160 Hp) CAT Automatic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

This larger 5.7L V8 provides excellent low-end torque, making the Malibu feel effortless on the highway and capable of hauling heavy loads.

Fuel Economy

Fuel consumption is very high, making this one of the thirstiest options, suitable for those prioritizing power over economy.

Best Use Case: Heavy-duty family transport, long-distance highway cruising, towing.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Spacious cargo and passenger room
  • • Comfortable, soft ride ideal for cruising
  • • Simple, robust V6/V8 engines (easy to maintain for enthusiasts)
  • • Classic American styling and road presence
  • • Rear-wheel drive platform

Cons:

  • • Poor fuel economy across all engine options
  • • Mediocre handling and braking by modern standards
  • • Limited power output for engine displacement (due to 70s emissions)
  • • Lack of modern safety features
  • • Potential for rust and age-related mechanical issues

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Chevrolet
Model:Malibu
Generation:IV Station Wagon
Modification (Engine):5.7 V8 (160 Hp) CAT Automatic
Start of production:1977
End of production:1978
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:6
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:160 Hp @ 3800 rpm.
Power per litre:27.9 Hp/l
Torque:325 Nm @ 2400 rpm.
Engine displacement:5733
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Carburettor
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:OHV
Engine oil capacity:4.3 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:101.6 mm mm
Piston Stroke:88.39 mm mm
Compression ratio:8.2:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Weight-to-power ratio:9.9 kg/Hp, 100.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.9 kg/Nm, 204.7 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1588
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:2050 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:1133 l
Fuel tank capacity:69 l
Size:
Ramp-over (brakeover) angle:14°
Length:4911 mm mm
Width:1816 mm mm
Height:1384 mm mm
Wheelbase:2745 mm mm
Front track:1486 mm
Rear (Back) track:1467 mm
Front overhang:915 mm
Rear overhang:1251 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):145 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):13.0 m
Approach angle:20°
Departure angle:15°
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears3
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesDrum
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Tires size195/75 R14; 205/75 R14
Wheel rims size6.0J x 14
Front suspensionIndependent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear suspensiondependent spring suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm

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