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 74 more horse power than 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (126 HP @ 2900 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. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 89 kg more than 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (174 Nm @ 2900 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 | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 66 L |
