2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 100 kg more than 1996 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Ford Ranger 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 1996 Ford Ranger. 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 (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Ranger |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
