2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 209 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. 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 (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus 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 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Malibu | Focus |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3501 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 299 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4150 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 79.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 81.4 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1295 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 1830 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |