2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Ford Laser
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Laser 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 87 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 359 kg more than 1998 Ford Laser. 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 (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (168 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Laser 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 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Laser |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3501 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 53 L |
