2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 80 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 Nissan 300 ZX 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 Nissan 300 ZX. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan 300 ZX. (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan 300 ZX. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1989 Nissan 300 ZX has manual transmission. 1989 Nissan 300 ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2530 mm |
