2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2013 Subaru Forester

To start off, 2013 Subaru Forester is newer by 10 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 32 more horse power than 2013 Subaru Forester. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2013 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 69 kg more than 2013 Subaru Forester. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2013 Subaru Forester is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Subaru Forester 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Subaru Forester. (236 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Subaru Forester. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2013 Subaru Forester has manual transmission. 2013 Subaru Forester 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 2013 Subaru Forester
Make Chevrolet Subaru
Model Malibu Forester
Year Released 2003 2013
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3500 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 16 cylinders
Engine Type V electric
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 200 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 236 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4100 RPM
Engine Bore Size 94 mm 99 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84.1 mm 79 mm
Drive Type Front AWD
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1569 kg 1500 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4560 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 2006 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1700 mm
Wheelbase Size 2850 mm 2615 mm