1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 190 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 146 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2720 mm |
