2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (169 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chevrolet |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
