2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Jaguar S-Type

To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Jaguar S-Type. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Jaguar S-Type would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Jaguar S-Type (201 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Jaguar S-Type should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Jaguar S-Type weights approximately 51 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 Jaguar S-Type is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Jaguar S-Type. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Jaguar S-Type. (250 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Jaguar S-Type. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Jaguar S-Type has manual transmission. 2002 Jaguar S-Type 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 2002 Jaguar S-Type
Make Chevrolet Jaguar
Model Malibu S-Type
Year Released 2003 2002
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3500 cc 2497 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 200 HP 201 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 6800 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 94 mm 81.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84.1 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1569 kg 1620 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2850 mm 2920 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 69 L