2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Nissan Trailrunner
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Trailrunner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Trailrunner 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 13 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Trailrunner. (187 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Trailrunner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 289 kg more than 1997 Nissan Trailrunner. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Nissan Trailrunner 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 Nissan Trailrunner 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 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Trailrunner. (200 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Trailrunner.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Nissan Trailrunner | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Trailrunner |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2530 mm |
