1996 Cadillac Catera vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Cadillac Catera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Cadillac Catera would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 200 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Cadillac Catera weights approximately 141 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1996 Cadillac Catera 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 1996 Cadillac Catera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Cadillac Catera. (260 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Cadillac Catera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Cadillac Catera | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chevrolet |
| Model | Catera | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 62 L |
