2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Acura EL
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura EL would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1998 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 301 kg more than 1998 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura EL. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1998 Acura EL 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 | 1998 Acura EL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Acura |
| Model | Malibu | EL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2619 mm |
