2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2000 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Dodge Dakota 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 82 more horse power than 2000 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2000 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 39 kg more than 2000 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Dodge Dakota. (197 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Dodge Dakota. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2000 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2000 Dodge Dakota 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 | 2000 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2850 mm |
