2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2007 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2007 Subaru Outback is newer by 4 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, 2007 Subaru Outback (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Subaru Outback weights approximately 180 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 2007 Subaru Outback 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, 2007 Subaru Outback 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Subaru Outback. (229 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2007 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Subaru |
| Model | Malibu | Outback |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2680 mm |
