2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Dodge Durango
To start off, 2012 Dodge Durango is newer by 9 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Durango (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Durango weights approximately 656 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.
Because 2012 Dodge Durango 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 2012 Dodge Durango. 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, 2012 Dodge Durango (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Dodge Durango | |
Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
Model | Malibu | Durango |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 352 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 2225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5075 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1925 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1801 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3043 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 93 L |