2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2005 Volvo XC90 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 4,399 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo XC90 (311 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 619 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 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 (441 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2005 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 4399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 2188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
