2003 Dodge Dakota vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (187 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 24 kg more than 2003 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Dakota 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Dakota. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Dakota | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Dodge | Chevrolet |
| Model | Dakota | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2738 mm |
