2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (305 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 70 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 2004 Ford Mustang 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 2004 Ford Mustang. 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (434 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (299 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3501 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 59 L |
