2003 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus.
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, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Focus | 2011 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Focus | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 61 L |
