2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Honda Civic
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2002 Honda Civic. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 321 kg more than 2002 Honda Civic. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (203 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Civic. (153 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Civic. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2002 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2002 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Honda |
| Model | Malibu | Civic |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1667 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1114 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 73 L |
