2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (198 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 54 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Hyundai |
| Model | Malibu | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2794 mm |
