2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Nissan Cube
To start off, 2012 Nissan Cube 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Cube. (122 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Cube. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 304 kg more than 2012 Nissan Cube. 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 (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Cube. (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Cube. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2012 Nissan Cube has manual transmission. 2012 Nissan Cube will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Nissan Cube | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Malibu | Cube |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1651 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
