2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2009 Nissan Versa 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), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Versa. (107 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 127 kg more than 2009 Nissan Versa. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Versa. (151 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Versa. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Versa has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Versa 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 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Versa |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
