2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 130 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 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 | 298 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
