2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 774 kg more than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 2003 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 2001 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | SSR | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2720 mm |
