2006 Cadillac XLR vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2006 Cadillac XLR is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 4,563 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac XLR (322 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 159 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Cadillac XLR 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 2006 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2006 Cadillac XLR (423 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac XLR | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chevrolet |
| Model | XLR | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4563 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 423 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 62 L |
