2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L 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 65 more horse power than 2004 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 184 kg more than 2004 Saturn L. 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn L. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Saturn L has manual transmission. 2004 Saturn L 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 Saturn L | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Malibu | L |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3501 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
