2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (353 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1095 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 GMC Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra will offer significantly more control. 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 GMC Sierra (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | Malibu | Sierra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 353 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 506 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 2664 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 129 L |
