2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2006 Opel Vectra. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 114 kg more than 2006 Opel Vectra. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Vectra. (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 61 L |
