2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Chevrolet Caprice
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chevrolet Caprice (195 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 400 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1989 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1989 Chevrolet Caprice (393 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 Chevrolet Caprice | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Caprice |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2950 mm |
