2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Ford Freestyle
To start off, 2005 Ford Freestyle 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Freestyle (203 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Freestyle should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Freestyle weights approximately 416 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.
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, 2005 Ford Freestyle (271 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Freestyle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2005 Ford Freestyle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Freestyle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1796 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2760 mm |
