2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2010 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Altima is newer by 7 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), 2010 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Altima weights approximately 132 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, 2010 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2010 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2010 Nissan Altima 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 | 2010 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
Model | Malibu | Altima |
Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 257 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1512 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2675 mm |