2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Hyundai Tucson
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Tucson 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Tucson (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Tucson should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Tucson weights approximately 288 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.
Because 2009 Hyundai Tucson 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, 2009 Hyundai Tucson 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Tucson. (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Tucson.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 Hyundai Tucson | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Hyundai |
| Model | Malibu | Tucson |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 86.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1668 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2640 mm |
