2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Opel Signum
To start off, 2006 Opel Signum 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 3,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 106 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 Opel Signum (301 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Signum 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 | 2006 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Signum |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3501 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
