2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1999 Ford Contour
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Contour 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 72 more horse power than 1999 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 327 kg more than 1999 Ford Contour. 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 (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Contour. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1999 Ford Contour | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Malibu | Contour |
Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |