1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (283 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 78 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Nissan 350Z (371 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
Model | Malibu | 350Z |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 283 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 371 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1464 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 73 L |