2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Ram weights approximately 914 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 Ram 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 Ram. 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 Ram (551 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (299 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram 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 Ram | |
Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
Model | Malibu | Ram |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3501 cc | 5700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 390 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 299 Nm | 551 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 2418 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5817 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2017 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1877 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3569 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 121 L |