2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Lexus ES
To start off, 2006 Lexus ES is newer by 3 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus ES weights approximately 52 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, 2006 Lexus ES (321 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Malibu | ES |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3314 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
