1996 Chevrolet Malibu 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 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 163 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 62 L |
