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1997 - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu Pre-Owned

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Khatir Soltani

1997 - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu - Few Recalls Make This Midsize a Good Bet

The 1999 Chevrolet Malibu pictured here, had become a popular family favorite due to its low price, full assortment of features and general reliabity.

What does the number 16 mean to you? Sweet sixteen, the day after payday, the jersey number of your favorite hockey star or maybe it's your shoe size. For me, like I'm sure so many others, the number 16 most powerfully represents the year I came of age to legally drive.

It was 1979 and my family's chariot, a 1976 Chevy Malibu, was at least as good as any available to any of my friends. It was bare bones transportation really, but the 'midsize' 2-door coupe still offered a decent ride, fairly good V8 acceleration and rear-wheel drive, powersliding oversteer handling characteristics. The AM radio cranked out tunes with minimal buzz while the front and rear bench seats had room enough for six.

1999 Malibu interior.

The Malibu stood up through amazing daily punishment, offering reliable transportation to my Mom, sister, brother and yours truly - the most punishing of all. I knew its top speed, 0 to 60 mph acceleration time, 300-ft skid pad maximum, slalom capabilities and even in-flight handling characteristics - I never tried that last one again. Even after getting broadsided by a yellow cab, my first accident (pre-license no less), the rugged Chevy hardly creaked or rattled.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada