2008 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 5 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Equinox. (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Equinox. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 631 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Equinox. (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Equinox.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Equinox | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Equinox | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 62 L |
