2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 294 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
