2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Caravan. (146 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Caravan.
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, 2003 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Caravan has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Caravan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 2003 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |
