2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Maxima 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 237 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, 2009 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2776 mm |
