2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru R2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru R2 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 156 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 694 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru R2 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2 will offer significantly more control. 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 (298 Nm) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru R2 has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru R2 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 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Subaru |
| Model | Malibu | R2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 44 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 56 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 30 L |
