2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 2 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 | 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Malibu | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 101.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 75 L |
