1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 50 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 382 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 62 L |
