2004 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 1 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 3 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 159 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 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:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Audi | Chevrolet |
| Model | A3 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
