2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder 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 3,953 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 166 kg more than 2009 Nissan Pathfinder.
Because 2009 Nissan Pathfinder 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 Nissan Pathfinder. 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Pathfinder. (288 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Pathfinder.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2009 Nissan Pathfinder | |
Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
Model | Malibu | Pathfinder |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3953 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 262 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 288 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1840 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |