2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 5,732 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 GMC Suburban (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1989 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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 GMC Suburban (407 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | Malibu | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 5732 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3300 mm |
