2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Nissan Skyline (271 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 69 kg more than 1998 Nissan Skyline.
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, 1998 Nissan Skyline (367 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1998 Nissan Skyline 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 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2569 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 367 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2730 mm |
