2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Lexus RX
To start off, 2005 Lexus RX 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 Lexus RX (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus RX weights approximately 530 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 2005 Lexus RX 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 Lexus RX 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, 2005 Lexus RX (296 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2005 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Malibu | RX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2730 mm |
