2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1996 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 3,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Subaru Outback. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 94 kg more than 1996 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Subaru Outback 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, 1996 Subaru Outback 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Outback. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1996 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Subaru |
| Model | Malibu | Outback |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3501 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2640 mm |
