1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2003 Ford Fiesta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (149 HP) has 82 more horse power than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 266 kg more than 2003 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Fiesta. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 2003 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 45 L |
