2002 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 77 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 414 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Chevrolet Prizm has manual transmission. 2002 Chevrolet Prizm will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Prizm | 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Prizm | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2950 mm |
