2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra 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 3 more horse power than 2009 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 56 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
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 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2009 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2009 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Malibu | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
