2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara is newer by 8 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 198 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara. 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 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Suzuki |
| Model | Malibu | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1695 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2640 mm |
