2002 Lexus IS vs. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. (169 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 9 kg more than 2002 Lexus IS.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2002 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 2010 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Lexus | Chevrolet |
| Model | IS | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 61 L |
