2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2002 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 152 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2002 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Malibu | Solstice |
Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 305 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1318 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2830 mm |