2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 6 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (212 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2009 Dodge Ram 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 2009 Dodge Ram. 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Ram. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Ram. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Ram 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 | 2009 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Ram |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2900 mm |
