2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 5 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 29 kg more than 2008 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2008 Nissan 350Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
Model | Malibu | 350Z |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 306 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 363 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 81.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.6:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |