2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Honda Accord
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda Accord 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 34 more horse power than 1998 Honda Accord. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 15 kg more than 1998 Honda Accord. 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 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda Accord. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda Accord. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1998 Honda Accord 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 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Honda |
| Model | Malibu | Accord |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
