2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (225 HP) has 25 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 14 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS.
Because 2001 Lexus IS 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 298 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Malibu | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 66 L |
