2000 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2007 Lexus IS

To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 350 kg more than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 Lexus IS 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 2007 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2007 Lexus IS (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Chevrolet Malibu. 2000 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2007 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2007 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2000 Chevrolet Malibu 2007 Lexus IS
Make Chevrolet Lexus
Model Malibu IS
Year Released 2000 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3135 cc 2231 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 257 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1730 kg
Vehicle Length 4840 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2740 mm