2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Malibu | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 57 L |
