2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Lexus SC
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus SC would be higher. At 4,298 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus SC (312 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus SC weights approximately 380 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lexus SC 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 2002 Lexus SC. 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, 2002 Lexus SC (447 Nm) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (203 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 2002 Lexus SC | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Malibu | SC |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 4298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 312 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
