1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 5,327 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban (282 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 945 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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 Suburban (441 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 5327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 9 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3310 mm |
