2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Ford Escape

To start off, 2005 Ford Escape is newer by 2 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 76 more horse power than 2005 Ford Escape. (124 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 34 kg more than 2005 Ford Escape. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Ford Escape is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Escape will offer significantly more control. 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 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Escape. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Escape. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Escape has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Escape 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 2005 Ford Escape
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Malibu Escape
Year Released 2003 2005
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3501 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 200 HP 124 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 299 Nm 168 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 94 mm 84.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84.1 mm 88 mm
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1504 kg 1470 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1760 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 59 L