2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 195 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara has manual transmission. 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
Make | Chevrolet | Suzuki |
Model | Malibu | Grand Vitara |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2736 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1690 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 66 L |