2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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 84 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (116 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 139 kg more than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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, 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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 (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (185 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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 | 1997 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Jeep |
| Model | Malibu | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2464 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 98.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 57 L |
